Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the USA
Usa, north-america
77 km
3,721 m
moderate
Year-round
Colorado's Trail Ridge Road, snaking through the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, is a must-do! This 48-mile (77 km) stretch of U.S. Highway 34, weaving between Estes Park and Grand Lake, offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Continental Divide. It's famed as the highest continuous paved road in the USA, reaching a dizzying 12,209 ft (3,721 m) above sea level.
The road itself is in great shape and fully paved, but be prepared for some switchbacks and steep drop-offs – though honestly, it's not as hair-raising as some other Colorado mountain routes. The speed limit is nice and low.
Keep in mind this route is typically closed during winter and can stay shut well into spring/early summer depending on the snow. Also, you'll need access to Rocky Mountain National Park to drive it. Conditions can change rapidly, especially in the shoulder seasons.
The name comes from the old trails native people used to cross the Rockies. Building this amazing road started back in 1929, and it was finished by 1932, with the steepest bits at a manageable 7% gradient.
Plan at least half a day for the trip, longer if you can swing it. This route is super popular and can get crowded, especially during holidays and on summer weekends between 9 am and 3 pm. Take your time, soak in the views from the many overlooks, and watch out for tourists who might be a little unsure of themselves on the road! It’s a truly remarkable driving experience!
Where is it?
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the USA is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 41.0173, -99.5596
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 77 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,721 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 41.0173, -99.5596
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