Maps can be deceiving. Look at a map of Trail Ridge Road. It appears to be a road that just can't make up its mind where it
wants to go, zig-zagging back and forth as it strikes out westward, only to suddenly head straight south. On a state map, it
looks so short, though it's certain to be marked scenic. Even that description is misleading. No, just looking at the map will fool
you. It is neither meandering nor short nor merely scenic. It is, quite simply, spectacular.
Like any serviceable road, it will take you somewhere - from Estes Park to Grand Lake or vice versa. The destination is secondary
to what you'll see along the way. Don't expect to stay in your car - there are numerous overlooks and trails that demand closer
inspection. The variety of scenery is staggering - meadows, forest clad slopes, stark tundra, alpine lakes. It also holds the
distinction of being the highest continuous paved road in the United States. Best of all, you can drive it one time or fifty and
never find it to be exactly the same. Weather, seasons and serendipity will present a new prospect every time.
Although the paved road you will be driving
on was first opened in 1932, it's history goes
back much farther. The Ute and Arapaho
Indians of previous centuries who trod the
trail it follows were simply walking in the
footsteps of the prehistoric people who first
found the route. Indeed, there is a timeless
quality that can be felt standing beside the
tundra, gazing at mountains that seem to
march on forever. Be ready to enter a world
apart. Trail Ridge Road - it's waiting for you
to come and experience it for yourself
Trail Ridge Road from the Alpine Visitor Center parking area
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Click here to start your virtual drive
