Discovering the US’ Awe-Inspiring ‘Highway to the Sky’
Trail Ridge Road, often referred to as the “Highway to the Sky,” is a 48-mile stretch of awe-inspiring roadway that winds through the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in Colorado. This remarkable route offers an exhilarating journey through some of the wildest and most breathtaking landscapes in the United States.
The Scenic Journey
Majestic Overlooks and Alpine Tundra
At an elevation of 12,048 feet, the Gore Range Overlook provides panoramic views of the snow-capped and barren Never Summer Mountains, surrounded by the delicate and beautiful alpine tundra. This is one of the highest points along Trail Ridge Road, offering a spectacular vantage point for visitors.
The Engineering Marvel
TRR is the highest continuously paved road in the United States. It crosses the Continental Divide and offers dramatic views of the park’s rugged tundra. With its series of hair-raising twists and turns, the road is an impressive feat of engineering, lacking guardrails in many places.
Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park
Popular Access to Wilderness
While 95% of RMNP is designated wilderness accessible only to adventurous hikers, It provides one of the most popular ways to explore the park. The drive takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, from vast meadows and towering evergreen trees to dramatic mountain ranges and rocky drop-offs.
Seasonal Accessibility
Due to heavy snowfall, TRR is only open from June to September. Clearing the road each year is a monumental task, as crews battle gale-force winds, white-out conditions, and snow drifts exceeding 20 feet in depth.
Historical Significance and Construction
Building the Road
Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915, just before automobiles became mainstream. By the late 1920s, more visitors wanted to explore the park by car. The original Fall River Road, a narrow, unpaved trail, couldn’t handle the increasing traffic. It was constructed to accommodate more visitors and provide a more accessible route through the park.
The Civilian Conservation Corps
The construction of Trail Ridge Road was part of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) program, created to employ young men during the Great Depression. Starting in 1929, workers had only about four months each year to dig, excavate, and pave the road. They faced challenges such as changing weather conditions and permafrost, which could cause permanent quagmires.
Driving of Trail Ridge Road
Timed Reservations and Preparation
Visitors to Trail Ridge Road should make timed reservations and plan to spend a full day exploring. Rapid and dramatic weather changes are common, so it’s essential to be prepared.
Guided Tours
For those who prefer not to drive, the Rocky Mountain Conservancy offers two bus tours: the Trail Ridge Road Scenic Ecology Tour and the Journey Over the Divide Scenic Ecology Tour. These tours provide in-depth explorations of the park’s flora and fauna, with several stops for photo opportunities and a picnic lunch.
The Road’s Deep Historical Roots
Prehistoric Pathways
Long before the construction of Trail Ridge Road, the route was used by the Ute people, Indigenous tribes who lived in present-day Colorado and Utah. Archaeologists have discovered game drives and wickiups in the area, indicating the route’s historical significance for hunting and gathering.
The Drive Experience
Autumn Beauty
Driving Trail Ridge Road in autumn offers a spectacular view of aspen trees shifting from green to gold and orange, wildflowers dotting the landscape, and distant mountain silhouettes. The route takes you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky formations.
Encounters with Wildlife
Every stop along Trail Ridge Road offers encounters with local wildlife, including elk, moose, chipmunks, and marmots. The Forest Canyon Overlook trail provides a chance to explore the delicate tundra ecosystem, while the Rock Cut area showcases how workers removed rock to create the road.
The Alpine Visitor Center
Interactive Exhibits
The Alpine Visitor Center, located at a whopping 12,183 feet, offers interactive educational exhibits about the plants and animals of the area and the construction of the road. Visitors can join a ranger-guided Tundra Nature Walk to learn about the alpine ecosystem and the region’s ancient geology.
Historical Sites and Landmarks
Milner Pass and the Continental Divide
Just past the Alpine Visitor Center, Milner Pass marks the crossing of the Continental Divide, where water flows toward either the Atlantic or the Pacific. The area features numbered switchbacks with stops for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Holzwarth Historic Site
The Holzwarth Historic Site, near the end of Trail Ridge Road, is a 1900s-era homestead built by German immigrants. It offers a glimpse into the challenges of high country life and the area’s first guest ranch.
Appreciating the Ecosystem
Conservation and Preservation
Understanding and appreciating the unique ecosystem of Trail Ridge Road is crucial for its preservation. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the area’s delicate balance and the importance of conservation efforts.
The Visitor Experience
Experiencing Trail Ridge Road through the eyes of a first-time visitor highlights its significance as a national treasure. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife makes it an unforgettable destination.
Conclusion
Trail Ridge Road is more than just a route through Rocky Mountain National Park; it’s a journey through time and nature. From its majestic overlooks and engineering marvels to its historical significance and diverse wildlife, Trail Ridge Road offers an unparalleled experience. Whether you’re driving the winding roads, joining a guided tour, or exploring the many stops along the way, Trail Ridge Road is a testament to the beauty and resilience of the American landscape. Plan your visit and discover why this “Highway to the Sky” continues to captivate millions of visitors each year.
