For those who are not avidly into such winter sports as skiing, SNOWboarding, SNOWshoeing, SNOWmobiling, etc., but still love visiting the high country during this season, here's an alternative solution: ROAD TRIP!! Colorado has many great loops across the state for road tripping, AND in all seasons. I recently embarked upon one such trip, making the loop over the Gore Range and Rabbit Ears Pass through the Grand/Route County areas. The 225 mile loop takes about 2-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend taking in the beautiful scenery. It's a good, leisurely drive through terrain that ranges from mountains and forests to canyons, to barren ranch land. With the warm sunshine crisply reflecting off newly frosted snow and glittering like Christmas, this road trip began at Highway 40 West in Kremmling. Then, turning onto Highway 134 over the Gore Range and Rabbit Ears Pass, dropping down just south of Toponas. Use caution, however, taking this route in the winter time. While the snow blankets everything around you, making for a picture-perfect postcard, Rabbit Ears Pass can be a little trecherous. So, it's always smart to check out the most current road conditions before heading out. 
From there, one can take Highway 131 North through the quaint little towns of Toponas, Yampa and Oak Creek (and yes, all are quaint and little). This route will take you back to Highway 40 West again and lead you into the more metropolis ski town of Steamboat Springs. Here, you can take some time out to enjoy lunch at any of Steamboat's fine restuarants. Johnny B Good's Diner and Creekside Cafe & Grill are just a couple of recommendations. Then, perhaps, take a stroll down Main Street and explore all the nifty shops this unique resort has to offer. 
View of the Flat Tops, heading towards Steamboat Springs Don't get too tired out, though, as this is only the half-way mark of the trip. There's still more to see! From Steamboat Springs, take Highway 40, this time going East to Highway 14 through Walden. Once arriving in Walden, turn at Highway 125 towards Willow Creek Pass. This pass winds its way up to the Continental Divide at the Summit. What a gorgeous view! Again, take caution in the winter season, as Willow Creek Pass can also become unforgiving. Continue along the downside of Willow Creek Pass to Highway 40 West. This will take you back to the starting point in Kremmling. It is a very scenic drive and during certain times of the year, an abundance of wildlife can be found along the way. Unfortunately, there did not seem to be any signs of wildlife on this trip, except for some cattle and horses out grazing the ranch land. Oh, and some alpacas too! 
Between Steamboat Springs and Walden, the terrain does flatten out a little into barren ranch land. Then, dramatically changes again back into thick forests and mountains going over Willow Creek Pass. As with any road tip in Colorado, always be prepared for all kinds of weather and climate changes, no matter what the season. Here are just a few of my own personal tips: - Always keep a warm blanket or two in the vehicle, along with an extra set of warm jackets/clothes.
- Always take lots of water, as well as some extra snacks; Or, pack a lunch if not planning on stopping to eat out.
- Make sure your vehichle is serviced and maintained accordingly before embarking on any road trip.
- Dress in layers for all types of weather.
- AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Colorado weather can be unpredictable, so simply be prepared for anything.
For other Colorado Road Trips, also visit: www.aaacolorado.com/travel. So, until my next road trip adventure . . . Enjoy! Blog By Christy Darling |
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