Experience driving U.S. 24 in Colorado?

daireemt wrote:
I'm looking for anyone with some experience of driving U.S. 24 in Colorado, namely Tennessee Pass. Wondering if it's a fairly good road or a glorified 'goat path.' Thanks

It's a US highway, so there are certain standards that it must meet. As with many roads in Colorado there is something of a climb from point A to point B, in this case the Upper Eagle Valley to Leadville. It's a popular route, with lots of RV and other travel; described as being something of a "gentle" pass, there are a few steep grades but nothing significant, and no major hairpin curves. As Colorado passes go, this one is somewhat mundane.

The "goat path" type passes in Colorado would be akin to Mosquito Pass or Rollins Pass...over 13000 feet and you'll likely NOT want to traverse it in a anything other than a Jeep or 4X4.

Tennessee Pass - Hwy 24 - from the 'Mountain Directory for Truckers and RVers'

Elevation 10,424' The summit is 8.5 mi west of Leadville. Eastbound descent toward Leadville is only 1.5 miles of 5-6%. Westbound descent starts with a 20 mph curve and 5-6% for 2 miles. The grade eases for about 1/2 mile and then goes back to 6% for almost 3 miles.

We've drive it both direction with our 40' motorhome with no issues but then, we enjoy mountain driving. :)

A couple years ago, the asphalt condition was excellent and I loved going that direction on my motorcycle heading to Leadville for work.
The views are great, but watch your speed as you head toward Minturn. Few tighter turns with minor switchbacks at Minturn.
I encountered semis from time to time. You won't have any issues with your combo.

I live in Buena Vista and have access I70 westbound several times a year both by car and the MH. In the Miata it is a fun drive because of the twisties. You do encounter semis and some white knuckled tourists. The road on either side of the summit can be a bit rough from winter freeze/thaw. The scenery is nice.

When driving the MH I prefer to access I70 by going over Freemont Pass and catching the Interstate at Copper Mountain. It adds about 10 minutes to the trip. Just a bit easier drive in the MH in my opinion.

We pull form Co. Springs to Leadville on 24 over Fremont Pass to Copper Mt. to pickup I 70. It is much easier than 70 west out of Denver. There is way less traffic and easier climbs.

Hey,
Thanks to all of you for your replies. Pretty much gave me the kind of info I was looking for. We plan on going that way in about 2 weeks. Good to hear from people with some experience. This forum is the greatest!
Thanks Again