Imagine cruising down a highway that winds through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views and access to world-class attractions. This is the experience that awaits you on one of America’s most spectacular road trips.
You’ll pass through deep canyons and alongside snowy peaks, with the Colorado River unfolding its majestic beauty. The journey is as much about the destination as it is about the journey itself, with numerous roadside attractions and landmarks that are sure to captivate travelers of all ages.
From historic mining towns to world-class ski resorts, the diverse attractions along this route make it an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re planning a dedicated road trip or just passing through, knowing where to stop can transform your drive into an extraordinary experience.
The Engineering Marvel of I-70 in Colorado
As you drive along I-70 in Colorado, you’re witnessing one of the greatest engineering feats in American history. The highway’s construction through the Rocky Mountains was a monumental task that required innovative solutions and meticulous planning.
The Last Piece of the Interstate Puzzle
The 12.5-mile stretch of I-70 through Glenwood Canyon was the last section of the Interstate Highway System to be completed, finished in 1992, 35 years after the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956. This section was particularly challenging, with a total cost of $490 million, approximately $800 million in today’s dollars.
Conquering the Rocky Mountains
Engineers faced significant challenges in designing a road that could navigate steep mountain passes and narrow canyons while minimizing environmental impact. The construction included 40 bridges, three tunnels, and extensive retaining walls, showcasing a commitment to both engineering and environmental sensitivity.
| Feature | Description | Notable Aspect |
|---|---|---|
| Bridges and Viaducts | 40 structures | Elevated viaducts |
| Tunnels | 3 tunnels | Careful excavation |
| Retaining Walls | 15 miles | Blended with natural landscape |
The completion of I-70 through Colorado is recognized as a significant achievement in the world of engineering, with its history still celebrated today. As you drive along this highway, you are experiencing a piece of American engineering history.
Planning Your I-70 Colorado Adventure
To make the most of your I-70 Colorado journey, careful planning is key. The corridor is nestled in deep canyons of the Colorado River amid snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, making it a unique road trip experience.
Best Times to Travel I-70
The best time to travel I-70 through Colorado depends on your preferences. Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are ideal due to fewer crowds, moderate temperatures, and spectacular scenery.
- Late spring offers blooming wildflowers.
- Early fall brings vibrant foliage.
What to Pack for Your Journey
Packing the right gear is essential for a smooth trip. Essentials include layers for changing mountain weather, sunglasses, sunscreen, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
| Season | Packing Essentials |
|---|---|
| Winter | Snow tires/chains, warm clothing, emergency supplies |
| Summer | Light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses |
| Spring/Fall | Layers, comfortable shoes, camera |
By planning your adventure carefully, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenic way that I-70 offers.
Golden: Where Your I-70 Adventure Begins
Your I-70 adventure starts in Golden, a historic town nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Golden is less than a half-hour drive from Denver and offers a blend of Western history, outdoor recreation, and famous attractions.
Coors Brewery Tour
Visit the world’s largest single-site brewery on a tour that takes you through the malting, brewing, and packaging processes. Learn about the beer-making process and enjoy samples.
Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
Explore the life of the famous Wild West showman at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, located in Lookout Mountain Park. Enjoy scenic trails with panoramic views of the Front Range, making it a great place to visit.
Golden, originally Colorado’s territorial capital, retains much of its historic charm with a walkable downtown featuring Victorian architecture, local shops, and excellent dining options. It’s a great city to explore before hitting the road on I-70. Visit the Colorado Railroad Museum, a notable museum showcasing the state’s railway history.
Idaho Springs: Historic Mining Town Treasures
With its rich mining heritage, Idaho Springs offers a unique blend of history, entertainment, and natural beauty. As you explore this charming town, you’ll discover a plethora of attractions that showcase its significance in Colorado’s history.
Gold Mine Tours
At Idaho Springs, you can venture into the heart of the town’s mining past through guided gold mine tours. The Phoenix Gold Mine offers an exhilarating experience, allowing you to tour a working gold mine and pan for gold in the stream. If you’re lucky, you get to keep any gold you find!
Indian Hot Springs
The Indian Hot Springs resort is another must-visit attraction, offering natural geothermal pools that were once considered sacred by the Ute and Arapahoe tribes. Today, you can relax in the indoor swimming pool or unwind in the outdoor hot tubs, rejuvenating your spirit.
Idaho Springs is not just about its attractions; it’s a town that preserves its history with pride. It’s considered one best stops along I-70, thanks to its unique experiences. The town is a significant site in Colorado’s Gold Rush history, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Some highlights of your visit include:
– Exploring the town’s rich mining heritage through mine tours that take you deep underground.
– Visiting the Phoenix Gold Mine to try your hand at gold panning.
– Relaxing at the Indian Hot Springs resort, enjoying the natural geothermal pools.
– Discovering the iconic Charlie Tayler waterwheel, a relic of the town’s mining past.
Georgetown: The Silver Queen of the Rockies
As you explore I-70, be sure to stop in Georgetown, a town steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. This charming historic town is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the Rocky Mountains.
Georgetown Loop Railroad
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a ride you won’t forget, offering a scenic journey through the mountains on a reconstructed narrow-gauge railroad from 1884. The train is powered by a steam locomotive and travels over the spectacular Devil’s Gate High Bridge, suspended 95 feet above Clear Creek.
Historic Downtown and Victorian Architecture
Georgetown’s historic downtown area is filled with elegant 19th-century buildings that transport you back to Colorado’s silver mining boom. The town’s commitment to preservation has earned it numerous awards, with many original Victorian mansions and commercial buildings meticulously maintained to showcase its prosperous mining era when European travelers and wealthy mine owners made it their home.
Eisenhower Tunnel: Engineering Feat at 11,155 Feet
The Eisenhower Tunnel is a marvel of modern engineering, cutting through the Continental Divide at an elevation of 11,155 feet. This feat makes it the highest vehicular tunnel in the United States and the highest point on the entire Interstate Highway System.
History of the Continental Divide Crossing
The Eisenhower Tunnel was completed in 1973 for the westbound bore and in 1979 for the eastbound bore. Its construction required overcoming extreme challenges, including high-altitude construction and water infiltration. The tunnel was named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who championed the Interstate Highway System.
Interesting Facts About the Highest Vehicular Tunnel in the US
The tunnel handles over 13 million vehicles annually and requires a staff of 52 full-time employees for its operation. It took only four months for the tunnel to carry its first million vehicles. Some key facts about the tunnel include:
- The tunnel’s elevation means that water on the west side flows toward the Pacific Ocean, while water on the east side flows toward the Atlantic.
- The dual-bore tunnel stretches 1.7 miles through the mountain.
- Before the tunnel’s construction, travelers had to navigate the treacherous Loveland Pass.
Skiing Paradise: World-Class Resorts Along I-70
The stretch of Interstate 70 in Colorado is home to a concentration of world-class ski resorts, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With numerous options catering to every skill level and budget, you’re sure to find your perfect skiing destination.
Vail: The Bavarian-Inspired Ski Haven
Vail stands out as the crown jewel of I-70 ski destinations, boasting 5,317 acres of skiable terrain, 33 lifts, and 193 marked trails. The Bavarian-inspired village offers a European alpine experience, complete with pedestrian-friendly streets, world-class dining, and luxury accommodations.
Breckenridge and Other Mountain Destinations
Breckenridge combines exceptional skiing with a genuine historic mining town atmosphere, offering five peaks of varied terrain. Other notable ski destinations along I-70 include Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin, each offering unique experiences and activities beyond skiing, such as mountain biking and scenic gondola rides.
These resorts offer a lot more than just winter activities, making them year-round destinations. The proximity to Denver International Airport via I-70 has been instrumental in making Colorado a premier ski destination, allowing visitors to hit the slopes the same day they arrive.
Glenwood Canyon: I-70’s Most Spectacular Stretch
Glenwood Canyon represents one of the most spectacular stretches of road along I-70, offering stunning views that captivate travelers from all over. The 12.5-mile stretch of I-70 through this canyon is a masterpiece of engineering, blending seamlessly into the natural landscape.
The Engineering Challenge
The construction of I-70 through Glenwood Canyon was a significant engineering challenge. It required the building of 40 bridges and viaducts, three tunnels, and 15 miles of retaining walls. The innovative design ensured that the highway minimized its visual impact on the canyon, with eastbound and westbound lanes often at different elevations.
Scenic Rest Areas and Viewpoints
To appreciate the grandeur of Glenwood Canyon, four scenic rest areas are available along this stretch: Hanging Lake, Grizzly Creek, No Name, and Bair Ranch. These provide access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and viewpoints. The Hanging Lake Rest Area is particularly notable as it offers a trail leading to a stunning travertine lake.
| Rest Area | Features |
|---|---|
| Hanging Lake | Hiking trail to travertine lake, picnic area |
| Grizzly Creek | Picnic area, viewpoints |
| No Name | Viewpoints, hiking trails |
| Bair Ranch | Picnic area, access to hiking trails |
Glenwood Springs: Relaxation and Adventure
Your I-70 adventure isn’t complete without a visit to Glenwood Springs, where relaxation meets excitement. This charming town offers the perfect place to break your journey, combining leisure and adventure in a historic setting that was once known as “Defiance” during its wild mining days.
World’s Largest Mineral Hot Springs Pool
The crown jewel of Glenwood Springs is the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool, featuring two enormous pools filled with naturally heated therapeutic waters. You can unwind in the hotter therapy pool (104°F) or enjoy the larger swimming pool (90°F), together covering more than two blocks. This historic hot spring, called “Yampah” or “Big Medicine,” has been in operation since 1888.
White Water Rafting on the Colorado River
Beyond relaxation, Glenwood Springs offers world-class adventure with some of Colorado’s best whitewater rafting on the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers. At the time of your visit, you can choose from family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids, making it an ideal home base for your I-70 adventure.
Glenwood Springs is not just a stop; it’s a destination where you can explore nearby attractions like Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Hanging Lake, and the hot springs vapor caves. The town’s walkable downtown area is home to excellent dining options, boutique shopping, and the Doc Holliday Trail.
Interstate70 (I-70), Colorado: Hiking Trails and Natural Wonders
With I-70 as your gateway, discover the beauty of Colorado’s great outdoors, from hiking trails to breathtaking natural wonders. The corridor along I-70 is dotted with attractions that cater to all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
Hanging Lake Trail
The Hanging Lake Trail, accessible from the Hanging Lake Rest Area in Glenwood Canyon, is a must-visit. This trail leads to a stunning turquoise lake perched on the edge of a cliff, with waterfalls cascading into it. Due to its popularity, a permit is required, which can be reserved in advance online.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
For those seeking a drive that’s as memorable as the hike, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a must. Accessible from the Idaho Springs exit, it takes you up to 14,265 feet above sea level, passing through three distinct ecosystems. Echo Lake Park along the way offers picnic areas, fishing, and a gentle trail around the lake.
I-70 also passes through the White River National Forest, offering over 2,500 miles of hiking trails, and intersects with the Continental Divide Trail at Loveland Pass. These natural areas showcase Colorado’s diverse landscapes, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife.
Family-Friendly Attractions Along I-70
Families traveling along I-70 in Colorado will find a range of attractions that promise entertainment and enjoyment for all ages. The route is dotted with exciting stops that cater to families and create lasting memories.
Colorado Railroad Museum
The Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. With over 100 historic locomotives and cars, it’s a great place for kids to learn about railroad history. Enjoy a ride on Thomas the Train or experience the magical Polar Express during the holiday season.
Georgetown Valley Candy Company
For a sweet treat, stop by the Georgetown Valley Candy Company. Watch as taffy is pulled and candy is made on marble slabs using traditional methods. Kids will love sampling the homemade fudge, chocolates, and ice cream.
Other family-friendly attractions along I-70 include Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, and Idaho Springs’ water park and gold panning experiences. These stops offer a mix of adventure, education, and fun, making your road trip a memorable one.
Foodie Stops Along the I-70 Corridor
From mountain town eateries to craft breweries, the I-70 corridor in Colorado is a foodie’s paradise. You’ll find a diverse range of dining experiences that go beyond typical highway food, with innovative eateries, local food traditions, and craft breweries.
Mountain Town Eateries
Mountain towns along I-70 boast unique dining experiences. In Idaho Springs, Beau Jo’s Pizza is a Colorado institution, famous for its “Mountain Pies” with thick, hand-rolled honey-sweetened crusts. In Georgetown, The Happy Cooker serves delicious homemade breads and hearty mountain fare on a sunny patio.
Local Breweries and Distilleries
The craft beverage scene thrives along I-70 with notable stops including Coors Brewery tours in Golden, Tommyknocker Brewery in Idaho Springs, and 10th Mountain Whiskey in Vail. These offer tastings of locally-produced spirits and beers.
In Golden, The Golden Mill food hall offers a contemporary dining experience with options ranging from gourmet tacos to sushi, along with self-pour craft beers and spectacular mountain views.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
As you travel along I-70 in Colorado, you’ll discover that the towns along this route come alive with seasonal festivals and events that showcase the region’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty. These events are a great way to experience the local community’s spirit and traditions.
Summer Celebrations
Summer is a vibrant time in the towns along I-70, with festivals like the Golden Games in May and Buffalo Bill Days in July. The Golden Fine Arts Festival draws over 35,000 people with its art, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. In Idaho Springs, the RapidGrass Bluegrass Music Festival and the Grillin and Chillin Music & Beer Festival are highlights of the summer.
Winter Festivities
Winter brings its own magic to the I-70 corridor, with festive events like Georgetown’s Oktoberfest and the Georgetown Christmas Market. The ski towns along I-70 host world-class winter events, including snow sculpture competitions and torchlight ski parades, making it a great time to visit these mountain towns and experience their unique charm throughout the year, especially on special days like Christmas.
Navigating I-70’s Mountain Driving Challenges
Colorado’s I-70 is a road that demands respect, especially during the winter months when weather conditions can change rapidly. As you plan your trip along this route, it’s essential to be aware of the challenges that lie ahead.
Winter Weather Preparedness
When traveling on I-70 from October through May, winter weather preparedness is crucial. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires or chains, and carry emergency supplies, including water, food, blankets, and a fully charged phone. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) provides real-time road condition updates, helping you plan your journey and know what to expect.
Traffic Hotspots and When to Avoid Them
Major traffic hotspots along I-70 include the approaches to the Eisenhower Tunnel, Vail Pass, and the Floyd Hill area. To avoid congestion, consider traveling on weekdays or departing early in the morning (before 6:30 AM) or later in the evening (after 8:00 PM), especially during peak ski season. By planning your time wisely, you can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable, finding a better way to navigate through these areas.
Detours Worth Taking: Scenic Byways Near I-70
Beyond the highway, I-70’s surrounding scenic byways promise unforgettable experiences amidst Colorado’s natural beauty. These detours offer a chance to explore the state’s diverse landscapes, from towering mountain vistas to deep canyons and historic mining towns.
Peak to Peak Highway
The Peak to Peak Highway, accessible via US-6 from I-70 near Golden, is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway. It offers 55 miles of stunning mountain vistas, historic mining towns, and access to Rocky Mountain National Park. This route is perfect for those who want to experience the high country without the challenges of difficult mountain driving.
Colorado National Monument
Just before you leave Colorado, consider a detour to the Colorado National Monument. This 31-square-mile park is easily explored in a day, featuring a 23-mile scenic drive through towering sandstone monoliths and deep canyons. The monument’s dramatic landscape rivals many national parks, leaving visitors with unforgettable views.
Other notable detours include the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America, which takes you to the summit of a 14,264-foot peak. The Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway and the Georgetown to Guanella Pass route offer stunning views and access to historic sites. These scenic byways showcase Colorado’s diverse landscapes, featuring interpretive signs that explain the geological, historical, and ecological significance of these special places.
As you explore these detours, you’ll discover roadside attractions and attractions along the way that are sure to enhance your journey. Some of these stops include historic mining towns, natural wonders, and national historic sites. Taking a detour can lead to unexpected adventures and memories.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your I-70 Colorado Journey
I-70 through Colorado is more than just a road trip; it’s an adventure through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The highway spans 284 miles, offering a diverse range of experiences from historic mining towns to world-class ski resorts.
To make the most of your journey, consider allowing several days to explore the numerous attractions along I-70. Don’t miss the roadside attractions and scenic pullouts that often provide the most memorable moments.
Strategic planning can enhance your experience. Check road conditions before you travel, and consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend traffic. The small towns along the route offer authentic experiences, from local eateries to museums showcasing the area’s history.
As you complete your journey, you’ll take home more than just photographs; you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the blend of natural wonders and human ingenuity that makes I-70 one of America’s most impressive highways.
