There is no shortage of beauty to behold in the San Luis Valley. Aspen Ridge RV Park is right in the middle of it all and a great place to venture out from. Sometimes being able to sit back and enjoy the ride makes for the perfect day. There are a lot of pathways through the mountains. Pack a picnic lunch, take the fishing poles, the blankets to sit on and maybe even your hiking boots and set out on one of the scenic byways for the day. Be sure to stop along the way and take in the fresh mountain air of the San Luis Valley. Below are some great scenic drive ideas, and we are happy to offer other suggestions as well. Just stop in at the office and we will be happy to help.
Beautiful scenery and historic markers await travelers along the Bachelor Loop route north of Creede. The loop is one of the many ways historic Creede acknowledges and embraces its past as a mining town and the continuation of the mining industry in town. See remnants of historic boom towns from the 1890s that sprang up to accommodate the influx of miners and often times their families.
Downloadable Map of Bachelor Loop courtesy of www.creede.com
The Alpine Loop is not for the faint of heart! It is a 67 mile loop with a drive time of 4 to 6 hours. It does require a four-wheel drive for most of its 67 rugged miles. But it is definitely rewarding! Passing through old mines and 7 ghost towns, hillsides of wildflowers, 2 high alpine passes and roads established in the early 1800’s, the Alpine Loop is one of the most exciting journeys in Colorado.
Downloadable Map of Alpine Loop adapted from CDOT
The Silver Thread Scenic Byway has been designated as a U.S. Forest Service National Scenic Byway and over its 117 miles connects Creede, Lake City and South Fork. Silver Thread gets its name not only from the rich veins of silver ore that lured many miners and settlers, but also from the route that weaves along spectacular river canyons and passes over the Continental Divide. This year-round highway courses through both the Rio Grande and Gunnison National Forests. Beautiful, breathtaking overlooks offer insight into geology and local history and provide many opportunities to enjoy spectacular views.
Downloadable Map of Silver Thread Scenic Byway adapted from CDOT
This beautiful historic route will take you through Alamosa, Fort Garland, San Luis, and Antonito, passing right through the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This 3 hour, 129 mile drive takes you through Colorado’s oldest town, La Vega, which also features the oldest continuously operating business in the state. The Byway is the perfect place for wildlife watchers with the Alamosa and Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuges on the route. Be sure to have your binoculars ready!
Downloadable Map of Los Caminos Antiguos Byway adapted from CDOT
