Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway

The prospect of gold disturbed everyone's minds in the late 1800's. And what better place for collecting gold, than the mighty Colorado River, which carved the Grand Canyon in Arizona? However, as time went on, the disappointment of poverty forced miners to reconsider their options. With an area flaunting the Colorado River and three large lakes, what better than to open resort towns to offer rest and relaxation. Others opted to farming and ranching, and even today continuing this use of the land. Discover the beauty of the Colorado River and surrounding areas on this 80 mile byway, beginning in Granby and traveling southwest to Hot Sulphur Springs, Kremmling, and ending in State Bridge.

 

The byway pays tribute to one of the mightiest rivers in the Western United States. It begins at the headwaters of the Colorado River. Though the byway only travels 80 miles of the river, the river itself runs another 1,320 miles to provide water to the southwestern states of Utah, Wyoming, California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. The river also has many points where it resembles a soothing brook, tumbling down green meadows and into gorges.

Be sure to visit the Hot Sulphur Springs, where once the Ute Indians came to cure rheumatism and arthritis. Many legends still surround these areas where Native Americans lived and hunted. Today, these springs still warm and soothe the body.

Don't miss the Three Lakes Reservoir. Here, Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby make up the largest reservoirs in the area, providing abounding water recreational activities. Fishing, camping, boating, hiking, and swimming are some favorite activities of the area. The Colorado River also boasts Gold Metal Water. This phrase means that the river is home to many trout considered to be trophy size. From Granby downstream to Troublesome Creek, many try their luck at catching a trophy trout. The river also provides rafting, as well as canoeing.