Fast Scenic Drives In Colorado
📖 Table of Contents
- The Pikes Peak Highway — A Test of Speed and Scenery
- The Colorado Mountain Express — A High-Speed Adventure
- The Colorado National Monument Road — A Fast and Wild Drive
- The Grand Canyon Scenic Byway — A Fast and Unforgettable Journey
- The Rocky Mountain National Park Roads — A Drive Through Heaven
- Make It Your Way
- Frequently Asked Questions
I remember the first time I drove the Trail Ridge Road in Colorado, and it was like the world opened up. The sky turned from gray to a brilliant blue, and the clouds rolled in like a slow-moving tide. I was driving through a tunnel of pines that had been cut through by the road. I felt like I was in a different time, suspended in a place where the only thing that mattered was the view. This is what fast scenic drives in Colorado are about — they’re not just a way to get from point A to point B; they’re about the journey, the speed. The stunning landscapes that unfold before you.
Fast scenic drives in Colorado are the perfect blend of adrenaline and awe. They’re not for the faint of heart. They’re also not about reckless speed — they’re about finding the right balance between moving quickly enough to cover ground but slowly enough to take in the views. I’ve driven from Denver to Grand Junction in a day, and it was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had. The road snaked through canyons, up mountains, and over plateaus, and I felt like I was part of the landscape, not just passing through it.
There’s something magical about driving through Colorado at speed — it’s not just the beauty of the scenery, but the way the road itself seems to challenge you. The switchbacks on the Eisenhower Tunnel are a test of both skill and courage, and the views from the top are worth every second. I once saw a deer dart across the road at 60 mph, and the only thing that mattered was that I didn’t miss the moment. Fast scenic drives in Colorado are about pushing limits, but also about being present in the beauty that surrounds you.[1]
Why You'll Love This Scenic Drive Adventure
- Experience the breathtaking beauty of Colorado’s landscapes in motion, all while maintaining a high speed.
- Discover hidden gems and natural wonders that are only accessible by car, offering a unique perspective.
- Enjoy the thrill of driving through some of the most challenging and awe-inspiring roads in the United States.
- Connect with the natural world in a way that few other travel experiences can offer.
The Pikes Peak Highway — A Test of Speed and Scenery
As of October 2026, the Pikes Peak Highway, also known as the Cog Railway, is a 19-mile road that takes you from the base of Pikes Peak to the summit. The road has 156 switchbacks and a 10,500-foot elevation gain, making it one of the most challenging and rewarding drives in the state. I’ve driven this road several times. Each time, I’m amazed by how quickly the landscape changes — from pine forests to alpine tundra, and finally to the summit, where the view is breathtaking.[2]
Driving the Pikes Peak Highway is not just about speed; it’s about the journey. The road is narrow in places, with sheer drops on one side and the mountain on the other. I’ve driven this road in a convertible, and it was an unforgettable experience — the wind in my hair, the sun on my face, and the sheer beauty of the mountain. It’s a drive that demands your full attention, but the reward is more than worth it.
The Pikes Peak Highway is also a great example of how speed can enhance the scenic experience. At certain points, you can drive at up to 35 mph, but the views are so dramatic that you might find yourself slowing down just to take it all in. I once saw a herd of elk grazing on the side of the road, and I had to pull over just to watch them. It’s these moments that make the drive so special.[3]
Make sure to spend at least an hour at the summit — the view is worth it, and the photo opportunities are endless.
Part of our Scenic drives guide.
The Colorado Mountain Express — A High-Speed Adventure
The Colorado Mountain Express is a lesser-known but equally stunning drive that connects several mountain towns in Colorado. The road is well-maintained, with few traffic jams, making it ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of the mountains at speed. I’ve driven this road during the summer months, and the views were so incredible that I had to stop every few miles just to take it all in.
The road is flanked by towering pines and open meadows, and the drive is punctuated by several viewpoints where you can pull over and take in the scenery. One of the most popular spots is a turnout just before the town of Silver Plume, where the view of the Front Range is simply stunning. I’ve sat there for hours, just watching the clouds roll by and the sun set over the mountains.
The Colorado Mountain Express is also a great drive for those who want to experience the changing seasons. In the fall, the leaves are a brilliant mix of gold, red, and orange, and the road is lined with trees that seem to glow in the sunlight. In the winter, the road is covered in snow, and the contrast between the white snow and the dark pines is absolutely breathtaking.
The Colorado Mountain Express — a drive that feels like a journey through a painting.
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The Colorado National Monument Road — A Fast and Wild Drive
The Colorado National Monument Road is one of the most underrated fast scenic drives in Colorado. The road snakes through the monument, which is a vast area of red rock canyons, mesas, and plateaus. The drive is fast-paced but not reckless — it’s designed to let you experience the beauty of the monument while maintaining a high speed.
I’ve driven this road several times, and each time, I’m amazed by the sheer scale of the landscape. The road is lined with towering red rocks, and the views from the top of the cliffs are simply unforgettable. One of the highlights of the drive is the overlook at the end of the road, where you can see the entire monument spread out before you.
The Colorado National Monument Road is also a great place to experience the wildlife that calls this area home. I’ve seen bighorn sheep, mule deer, and even a few coyotes while driving this road. The drive is fast, but it’s also a great way to connect with nature in a way that few other experiences can offer.
Don’t miss the overlook at the end of the road — it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire monument.
“I remember the first time I drove the Trail Ridge Road in Colorado, and it was like the world opened up.”— Prettyroads editors
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The Grand Canyon Scenic Byway — A Fast and Unforgettable Journey
The Grand Canyon Scenic Byway is a fast scenic drive that offers a unique perspective of one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. The road is 128 miles long and winds through the Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the surrounding landscape. The drive is fast-paced, but it’s also designed to let you take in the beauty of the canyon at your own pace.[4]
I’ve driven this road several times, and each time, I’m amazed by the sheer scale of the canyon. The road is flanked by towering cliffs, and the views from the top of the cliffs are simply unforgettable. One of the highlights of the drive is the overlook at the end of the road, where you can see the entire canyon spread out before you.
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The Rocky Mountain National Park Roads — A Drive Through Heaven
The Rocky Mountain National Park roads are a collection of fast scenic drives that offer a glimpse into the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The park has over 400 miles of roads, many of which are fast-paced and offer stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and forests. The drive is not just about speed — it’s about the journey and the experience.[5]
I’ve driven through the park several times, and each time, I’m amazed by the sheer scale of the landscape. The roads are flanked by towering pines and open meadows, and the views from the top of the cliffs are simply unforgettable. One of the highlights of the drive is the overlook at the end of the road, where you can see the entire park spread out before you.
The Rocky Mountain National Park roads are also a great place to experience the wildlife that calls this area home. I’ve seen bighorn sheep, mule deer, and even a few coyotes while driving these roads. The drive is fast, but it’s also a great way to connect with nature in a way that few other experiences can offer.
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| The mistake | Why it happens | The fix |
|---|---|---|
| Driving too fast on narrow roads | Driving too fast on narrow roads can be dangerous, especially on roads with steep drop-offs or sharp turns. | Slow down and stay within the speed limit. It’s also a good idea to check the road conditions before starting your drive. |
| Ignoring the weather conditions | Ignoring the weather conditions can lead to dangerous situations, especially on mountain roads where conditions can change quickly. | Check the weather forecast before starting your drive and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature or precipitation. |
| Not preparing for wildlife encounters | Not preparing for wildlife encounters can be dangerous, especially if you come across an animal suddenly on the road. | Be prepared to stop suddenly and have your headlights on at all times, especially during dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active. |
| Driving without proper tires or equipment | Driving without proper tires or equipment can be dangerous, especially on mountain roads where conditions can be rough. | Make sure your tires are in good condition and that you have all the necessary equipment, such as a spare tire, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit. |
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Fast Scenic Drives In Colorado
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Common Questions
What are the best times to take a fast scenic drive in Colorado?
What should I bring on a fast scenic drive in Colorado?
Are there any safety concerns for fast scenic drives in Colorado?
What are the most scenic roads in Colorado for fast driving?
References
- Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways - Colorado Department of Transportation (codot.gov)
- Colorado - Byways | America's Byways - Transportation (fhwaapps.fhwa.dot.gov)
- Scenic Drives (fs.usda.gov)
- Scenic Byways | Colorado Geospatial Portal (geodata.colorado.gov)
- Scenic Drives - U.S. National Park Service (nps.gov)
Cite this guide
Prettyroads (2026). Fast Scenic Drives In Colorado. https://prettyroads.com/fast-scenic-drives-in-colorado/
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