With its breathtaking alpine backdrop and stunning natural beauty, Alpine remains the undisputed jewel in Colorado’s glittering crown. Its global appeal and geographical magnetism is well known to the locals, who refer to this phenomenon as the ‘Curse of the Ute’ and cite it as the primary reason why so many many visitors seek to extend their stay.
Aspen is a particularly suitable destination for those who are planning a road trip in the U.S., as it is extremely accessible and also serves as a gateway to diverse rural communities such as Paonia, Leadville and Carbondale. Alongside some of the most breathtaking scenery that America has to offer, these locations all contribute to the enduring luster of Aspen and its surrounding regions.
Three Must See Locations on your Aspen Road Trip
Given the diversity of landscape and terrain that runs throughout Aspen, it stands to reason that there should be numerous places of interest for you to visit during your road trip. Consider the following destinations: –
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Forged by the Gunnison River, the Black Canyon is a natural phenomenon that runs through soft volcanic deposits in the Precambrian rocks. A stupendous natural gorge, it remains ones of the most popular landmarks in Aspen and is easily accessible by car. The Black Canyon is also a surprisingly diverse location, with soaring, jagged pinnacles and numerous dark walled cliffs creating a canvas ripe for adventure and exploration. Upon arrival, you can take a slow and scenic drive along the parks southernmost boundary, and this provides you with clear views of the surrounding landscape and terrain. Although the National Park is located approximately 4 hours from the heart of Aspen, it offers the perfect excuse for a unique and invigorating day trip.
- Black CanyonAl_HikesAZ / Foter / CC BY-NC
Redstone in Colorado
Attempting to identify unspoilt locations in contemporary America is a difficult and potentially fruitless challenge, unless you visit Colorado’s very own Crystal River Valley. Here lies to quaint and largely untouched mining village of Redstone, which continues to resist the hustle and bustle of metropolitan existence. Boasting a small but well presented selection of craft outlets, art museums and jewelery boutiques, it is mesmerising in its beauty and far removed from the typical American community. Another ideal location for those looking to escape for a day or a weekend, Redstone is just an hour and a half away from Aspen and embodies everything that is unique about the Colorado region.
- Redstone in Coloradocobalt123 / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Leadville in Colorado
If your aim is to visit geographically unique locations on your Aspen road trip, Leadville should be listed as your number one destination. Located just beyond Independence Pass and just an hour from Aspen, Leadville is considerably elevated and resides a staggering 10,150 feet above sea level. This means that visitors who take the time to drive there can enjoy a series of stunning views, with the soaring peaks of Mount Massive particularly beguiling. As America’s most elevated destination, it has earned the moniker ‘Sky City USA’ and gained in notoriety even as its core population has dwindled. Now an extremely popular tourist resort, it offers motorists a breathtaking journey as they traverse the snaking Highway 82 and cover every inch of America’s most fascinating landscape.
- Leadville in Coloradopam’s pics- / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
[box]This article was written by Lewis, who is a freelance blogger and researcher who originates from the UK. Before you embark on a road trip across Northern America or Canada, be sure to compare car insurance quotes at Kanetix.ca.[/box]
