Shelf Road in Colorado: If you don't like steep drop-offs, don't take the road
Usa, north-america
21.4 km
1,902 m
extreme
Year-round
Shelf Road: Buckle up for a wild ride through Fremont and Teller counties in Colorado! This isn't your average Sunday drive; it's an adventure meant for the brave at heart (and those who trust their driver implicitly!). Got a thing for steep drops? Maybe skip this one. Some spots are so narrow, two cars can't squeeze by.
This 13.3-mile dirt track snakes from Cañon City, climbing from 6,240 feet to a whopping 9,393 feet near Cripple Creek. That's a climb of over 3,000 feet, with an average gradient of almost 4%! Part of the Gold Belt Scenic Byway, it's a stunner, but not for the faint of heart.
Most vehicles can handle it, but if it's wet or snowy, you might want something with all-wheel drive. The views are incredible, but the road? Let's just say it keeps you on your toes. Think one-lane dirt road clinging to a cliff face with blind corners. You'll be close enough to high-five the driver in the oncoming car.
The scariest part is the first few miles heading north from Canon City. That's where it's the steepest and narrowest. Passengers on the cliff side might want to close their eyes! Some say it's better to travel south, so the driver gets the view of the abyss.
Word to the wise: keep an eye out for gold mine employees commuting at breakneck speeds. They know this road like the back of their hand and aren't afraid to show it!
Built way back in 1892 as a toll road, Shelf Road was originally a stagecoach route to Cripple Creek. It gets its name from being carved right into the canyon wall, sometimes hundreds of feet up.
The scenery is spectacular, with hairpin turns galore and limestone cliffs that'll leave you breathless. But remember, driver, eyes on the road! Let your passengers enjoy the views while you focus on not plunging into the canyon.
Oh, and there's even a local legend about a high-speed chase up Shelf Road involving an armed fugitive. Imagine that wild ride!
So, are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Shelf Road awaits! Just remember to check conditions before you go and maybe say a little prayer.
Where is it?
Shelf Road in Colorado: If you don't like steep drop-offs, don't take the road is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 39.0958, -98.3295
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 21.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,902 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 39.0958, -98.3295
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