There are many amazing scenic routes through the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. One of them is this drive that starts at Woodland Park and ends near Grant by the Guenella Pass area. The Guanella Pass is one of the most popular and also a beautiful drive, which you could easily take once you've reached Grant. Taking both of these routes would be an amazing scenic drive if you are planning to travel from South to North Colorado or vice versa.
The drive from Woodland Park going North to Grant is mostly mountain terrain with lots of sharp narrow turns, different elevations, and part of it also takes you along the Platte River. Such a fun route to drive! Unlike the Guenalla Pass which is paved, make sure you are driving an appropriate vehicle than can handle mountain terrain while driving this path. For reference, the pictures and videos below show a little bit of the road conditions in mid-November.
If you're looking for a great place to stay while in Grant, the Hygge Chalet is a modern picturesque A-Frame cabin with a sauna. It was the nicest place to stay while in the mountains. See my post about the Hygge Chalet here.
Gudy Gaskill Bridge
While driving along the Platte River, you'll also drive past the Gudy Gaskill Bridge. A great stop to make! The Gudy Gaskill bridge is a pedestrian bridge that takes you across the South Platte River. The bridge is the starting point of segment 2 of the world famous hiking path called the "Colorado Trail". Check out the video of the Gudy Gaskill bridge and the South Platte River.
The Route
We drove from Colorado Springs to Woodland Park. At Woodland Park, take Rampart Range Road. Follow Rampart Range Road all the way until it ends into S CO HWY 67.
Go West on S CO HWY 67 and take the exit W Pine Creek Rd.
Follow W Pine Creek Rd all the way until it ends into N Platte River Rd.
Go North on N Platte River Rd (97) which turns into W Platte River Rd (96). Stay on W Platter River Rd (96) until you can turn onto S Foxton Road (97).
Follow S Foxton Road (97) all the way until you've reached US HWY 285 right by Conifer.
Go West on US HWY 285 until you've reached Grant.
This may not be the fastest way to get from Colorado Springs to Grant but it sure is one of the most beautiful and fun ways to get there! You are right in the middle of nature and while driving through, there are many opportunities to stop and take pictures or go on a hike, etc. There's so much to see and explore while taking this drive. A great way to experience the mountains in Colorado.
Until the next departure!
(*All links are personal suggestions and nonaffiliated)
Scenic mountain-terrain drive through the Rocky Mountains
A drive with many beautiful sceneries and amazing lookout points.
