It’s time to plan your spring road trip.
Spring is in the air here in Colorado – and what better way to celebrate the season than to plan a spring road trip. If you’ve never visited some of these beautiful and iconic destinations, there is no better time.
Here are our top 5 picks for where to go this spring.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park is breathtaking. The roads reopen in spring and expose you to some of the steepest and oldest rock spires in North America. These narrow canyon walls stretch 2,700 feet from the canyon floor. The park makes for the perfect spring adventure – with hiking, biking, rafting, rock climbing and more.
Black Canyon is easily reached just 20 minutes from downtown Montrose- and while you’re in the area make sure to check out Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest lake located in the state!
Hot Springs
Hot springs are one of Colorado’s most popular attractions – and it’s no secret why, there are few better ways to relax after a long day of hiking in the mountains on a beautiful spring day. Hot springs are particularly great in the spring when the weather is just starting to warm up – but might still be a little on the cooler side. There’s no shortage of springs to choose from ranging from the rustic to the downright luxurious.
Strawberry Park in Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Hot Springs and Pagosa Springs are all popular options – but wherever you choose to soak after your drive you are sure to find relaxation.
Palisade
Palisade is Colorado wine country – famous for the landscape and the peaches. Palisade is home to an amazing food and creative communities…not to mention the recreational opportunities. If you’ve never made the drive to Palisade this is the spring road trip for you.
Check out the local small-batch wine from the variety of wineries along the fruit and wine byway. This the perfect way to experience vineyards as you drive along the scenic Colorado River.
Ghost Towns
Colorado has more than 1,500 ghost towns – 600 of these have some sort of remains left behind for you to explore. The life and death of these little towns can be attributed to the mining of gold and silver throughout the state, as the mining dried up, so did the town. Out of the 600 ghost towns left, there are a few that are better preserved than others – and they make great spring road trip destinations for those looking to explore a little slice of Colorado history. Here are a few of our favorites…
Independence
Independence is located right off Independence Pass east of Aspen about 16 miles. Sitting at 11,000 feet the view here is incredible. Miners moved into Independence with the discovery of gold – but the town was short lived. There are several structures still standing here for you to explore.
Carson
Carson is one of the best-persevered ghost towns in Colorado. It can be found along the Continental Divide Trail south of Lake City. The trail up to Carson is 7 miles long – and is rough so you will need to hike or have a high clearance 4×4 vehicle.
St. Elmo
Although not technically a ghost town, as there are still several residents living in the area and the general store is open for tourists throughout the summer. St. Elmo has many well-persevered buildings from its mining days and can be easily found 20 miles southwest of Buena Vista.
Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway
While not really a destination per say – this drive will take you through the heart of Colorado on a 57-mile drive along the Arkansas River to the Continental Divide. This scenic drive is perfect for spring as the wildlife is waking up, bringing you through the San Isabel National Forest with opportunities to stop in Salida and Buena Vista.
Keep an eye out for an abundance of birds, elk, deer, horses, and spring wildflowers as you drive.
Spring into Driving with AAMCO Colorado
At AAMCO Colorado we want to get you where you want to go safe and sound this spring. If you are planning your spring road trip be sure to take precautions to make sure your car is ready for the long journey ahead. Take advantage of our free spring safety check!
Time for a spring tune-up? Your next oil change? Don’t put your family at risk on the road – come into your local AAMCO Colorado, it’s easy to schedule online today.