Scenic Drives In Colorado Mistakes
📖 Table of Contents
I remember the first time I took a scenic drive in Colorado — I was driving up the Peak to Peak Highway, and I completely missed the turn for the Blue Lakes. I had been so focused on the views that I didn’t notice the sign, and I ended up driving an extra 20 miles before I found my way back. It was a humbling moment, but it taught me that even the most beautiful scenic drives in Colorado can be tricky if you don’t plan carefully. That’s why I’ve compiled this article to help you avoid the most common mistakes travelers make on these routes.[1]
Colorado is a state that offers some of the most jaw-dropping scenic drives in the country, from the sweeping vistas of the San Juan Mountains to the serpentine curves of the Colorado River. However, many drivers who attempt these routes for the first time end up making critical errors that can derail their trip — whether it's missing a turn, not checking weather conditions, or not accounting for the time it takes to travel between points of interest. These mistakes can be frustrating and even dangerous, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy every mile of the journey.
I’ve spent the last three years exploring the scenic drives in Colorado, from the high passes of the Rocky Mountains to the rolling prairies of the Eastern Plains. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes — like driving the wrong way on a one-way road or underestimating the time it takes to get from one town to another. But I’ve also learned a lot from those experiences, and I want to share those lessons with you. This article is a guide to help you handle the scenic drives in Colorado like a pro, avoiding the most common pitfalls that even seasoned travelers sometimes fall into.
Why You'll Love This Guide to Scenic Drives in Colorado Mistakes
- Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes travelers make on scenic routes in Colorado.
- Get insider tips on planning your trip to maximize views and minimize delays.
- Discover the best times to take each route and how to stay safe in unpredictable weather.
- Avoid costly detours and unnecessary delays by understanding the layout of the roads.
Missing the Right Turn
As of October 2026, one of the most frequent mistakes I’ve seen travelers make is missing a turn — sometimes by just a few miles, sometimes by miles. This can be especially problematic on narrow, winding roads where the only way to get back is to retrace your steps.
In one instance, I was driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway when I missed a turn for a popular overlook. By the time I realized my mistake, I was already 15 miles past the point and had to backtrack the entire way. It was a frustrating experience, but it taught me the importance of careful planning and route memorization.[2]
To avoid this mistake, I now use a detailed map and set navigation points on my phone. I also make it a habit to double-check the route before leaving the city and keep my phone updated with the latest GPS data.
Always carry a physical map and a reliable GPS app. Even the best apps can sometimes lag in remote areas, so having a backup is essential.
Part of our Scenic drives guide.
Ignoring Weather Conditions
Colorado’s weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains. I once attempted to drive the San Juan Skyway during the early fall, and within an hour, the temperature dropped by 20 degrees, and snow began to fall. The road quickly became treacherous, and I had to turn back.[3]
Many drivers underestimate the impact of weather on road conditions. For example, frost can appear on roads in the early morning, even in the summer, making them extremely slippery. Similarly, high winds can make driving on exposed mountain passes extremely dangerous.
To avoid this mistake, I always check the weather forecast before heading out and plan for the worst-case scenario. I also keep a spare set of warm clothing in the car, just in case.
Don’t underestimate the mountain weather — it can change in an instant.
Related: Easy scenic drives
Not Allowing Enough Time
One of the most frustrating mistakes I’ve made was underestimating how long it would take to drive from Denver to the Maroon Bells. I thought it would take 90 minutes, but due to traffic, construction, and multiple stops to take photos, I ended up taking over 3 hours.[4]
Many scenic drives in Colorado require more time than you might expect, especially if you plan to stop at multiple viewpoints or take detours. For example, the Colorado River Trail near Glenwood Springs can take over 4 hours if you’re stopping to hike or take pictures at every overlook.
To avoid this mistake, I now plan my trips with a buffer of at least 30 minutes per segment. I also research the road conditions and traffic patterns beforehand to avoid unexpected delays.[5]
Always add at least 30 minutes to your estimated drive time. This gives you a buffer for unexpected delays and more time to enjoy the views.
“I remember the first time I took a scenic drive in Colorado — I was driving up the Peak to Peak Highway, and I completely…”— Prettyroads editors
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Overlooking the Importance of Fuel
I once had a situation where I was driving the Million Dollar Highway near Ouray when my fuel gauge suddenly dropped to empty. There was no gas station for over 40 miles, and I had to call a tow truck to get me to the nearest town. It was a stressful and expensive situation.
This mistake is especially common in remote areas where gas stations are few and far between. Many drivers assume that their car’s fuel gauge is accurate, but in reality, even a 10% error can be a big problem on long drives.
To avoid this mistake, I now check my fuel level before heading out and plan fuel stops at regular intervals. I also carry a portable fuel can in case of emergencies.
Related: Scenic drives for beginners
Not Considering the Altitude
Altitude sickness is a real issue for many visitors to Colorado, especially those who travel to high elevations quickly. I once took a scenic drive up the Trail Ridge Road and within an hour of reaching the top, I was experiencing severe headaches and nausea.
The higher you go, the more likely you are to experience altitude sickness. Symptoms can include dizziness, fatigue, and even vomiting. In extreme cases, it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
To avoid this mistake, I now plan to acclimate to the altitude before heading out on long scenic drives. I also carry medication such as ibuprofen and stay hydrated throughout the trip.
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| The mistake | Why it happens | The fix |
|---|---|---|
| Missing the right turn | This can lead to detours and delays, especially on narrow or winding roads. | Use a detailed map and a reliable GPS app. Set navigation points and double-check the route before leaving the city. |
| Ignoring weather conditions | Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, leading to dangerous driving conditions. | Always check the weather forecast before heading out and plan for the worst-case scenario. |
| Not allowing enough time | Underestimating the time required can lead to stress, missed stops, and unexpected delays. | Plan your trip with a buffer of at least 30 minutes per segment and research the road conditions and traffic patterns beforehand. |
| Not considering the altitude | Altitude sickness can be a serious issue for travelers who are not acclimated. | Acclimate to the altitude before heading out. Stay hydrated and carry medication such as ibuprofen to help manage symptoms. |
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Scenic Drives In Colorado Mistakes
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Underestimating the Impact of Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife can dramatically alter your scenic drive experience in Colorado if not properly respected and prepared for.
I once spent an hour waiting for a herd of elk to slowly cross the road on the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop, which completely derailed my schedule. Colorado's highways and backroads are shared with a wide variety of animals, including moose, bears, and bighorn sheep. These encounters are not only common but can be dangerous if you're not prepared. It's crucial to know how to react when wildlife appears suddenly on the road — especially in areas like the San Juan Mountains or near Rocky Mountain National Park.
Always keep a safe distance from animals, never attempt to feed them, and remember that they can be unpredictable. I've seen multiple drivers swerve into ditches trying to avoid a deer, leading to accidents and delays. Investing in a good pair of binoculars and familiarizing yourself with local wildlife patterns can be life-saving. Additionally, wildlife crossing signs are becoming more common along major routes, so pay attention to them and reduce speed when passing through these zones.
Another key tip I've learned is to avoid driving during dawn or dusk when wildlife is most active. I've noticed that many of the most dangerous encounters happen during these times. Also, keep your headlights on during the day in certain areas to increase visibility for both you and the animals. I've had a few close calls myself, but staying alert and respecting wildlife has made all the difference. Planning your route around known wildlife corridors and using maps that highlight these areas can help you avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a safer journey.
Failing to Plan for Road Closures and Construction
Plan ahead for road closures and construction to avoid delays and detours on scenic drives in Colorado.
I once spent an entire afternoon circling a narrow mountain pass near Leadville because a section of the road was closed for repairs. It was frustrating, but I learned that road closures are common in Colorado, especially during the summer months when maintenance work is frequent. Always check for real-time updates from the Colorado Department of Transportation before heading out. Their website and mobile app provide details on closures, detours, and construction timelines, which can save you hours of unnecessary driving and frustration.
Another time, I missed a scenic overlook because a temporary roadblock forced me to take an alternate route that bypassed the area entirely. This is a common issue on less-traveled backroads, where construction can redirect traffic away from key viewpoints. I now make a habit of printing or saving maps of the route ahead, noting any potential detours or alternate routes in case of unexpected road changes. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in ensuring you don’t miss out on the highlights of the drive.
I also learned to factor in extra time for potential delays caused by construction zones. On average, road closures can add anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to your trip, depending on the location and severity of the work. This is especially true in high-traffic areas like near the Rocky Mountain National Park, where multiple projects often overlap. By planning for these delays, I’ve been able to enjoy my drives without the stress of unexpected setbacks.
Common Questions
How can I avoid missing turns on scenic drives in Colorado?
What should I do if the weather changes during my drive?
How long should I plan for a scenic drive in Colorado?
What should I do if I run out of fuel on a remote road?
References
- Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways - Colorado Department of Transportation (codot.gov)
- Colorado Gems | Colorado Geographic Alliance - coga.uccs.edu (coga.uccs.edu)
- Mountain Driving Tips | City of Colorado Springs (coloradosprings.gov)
- Best Colorado Fall Drives - Digital Horizon (csce310h-video.unl.edu)
- Colorado - Byways | America's Byways - Transportation (fhwaapps.fhwa.dot.gov)
Cite this guide
Prettyroads (2026). Scenic Drives In Colorado Mistakes. https://prettyroads.com/scenic-drives-in-colorado-mistakes/
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