scenic byway scenic byway

Silver Thread Scenic Byway Map

 

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Creede boomed in 1890, growing some days 300 people a day. Abandoned when the silver prices dropped in 1893, the next years brought major floods and fires. The winters of this area were harsh, and in 1848 John C. Fremont lost 1/3 of his men. In the winter of 1873, Alfred Packer was the sole survivor to return from his exploration of the mountains, supposedly eating his companions. Between silver and cannibalism, the region of the Silver Thread Byway is rich in history. Start traveling in South Fork, and pass through Creede and Gunnison to end your journey in Lake City, totaling 75 miles. Give 2 hours to drive the entire byway.

Beauty surrounds the region. The San Juan Mountains are visible from the byway, and the Wheeler Geologic National Area provides views of exquisite land formations. Be sure you have a 4 wheel drive vehicle to travel to the Wheeler Area and be prepared to hike a few miles where the road ends. Also in the area is Coller State Wildlife Area. Here, Elk gather before migrating. Between 700-1,000 Elk have been spotted here at one time. Don't miss the North Creek Clear Waterfalls, known for being the most photographed site, or Spring Creek Pass, home of the Great Continental Divide.

waterfall silver thread scenic byway, Colorado, The CVD
rafting near silver thread scenic byway, Colorado, The CVD

The Wagon Wheel Gap is a site rich in history. Built in 1870, this was the first Stage Stop between South Fork and Lake City. However, the Ute Indians used the area long before for what they called "Little Medicine," or hot mineral waters. Today, these hot springs are resorts and privately owned.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do. Between two wilderness areas and numerous fourteeners, camping, fishing, hiking, rafting, and biking are popular activities. The winter months provide ice fishing in the reservoirs, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling on mapped and maintained trails.

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Places to Stay & Fun things to Do

Arbor House Inn on the River photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Near South Fork this elegantly appointed B&B, in a beautiful riverside setting with five themed guest rooms, including a honeymoon suite with a jetted whirlpool tub. Golf, romance & wedding packages.
Cottonwood Cove Lodge, Cabins, RV Park, Jeeps, Horse Rides & Rafting email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
1, 2 & 3 bedroom cabins with kitchens & fireplaces plus RV sites along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway (Highway 149) between Creede and South Fork in Wagon Wheel Gap. Dogs Welcome!
G & M Cabins email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page rates sub-page link on advertiser page
Fully equipped cabins with kitchens in Lake City. Walk to shops and restaurants. Drive historic Alpine Loop Scenic Byway and visit ghost towns "on top of the world." Outdoor activities are boundless.
Gunnison-Crested Butte is Colorado Pure & Simple. . . photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Highlights are The Black Canyon of the Gunnison, our nation's newest National Park and Curecanti, a National Recreation Area including the Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado's largest body of water.
Hard Tack Mine Tours & Museum mutual link button on advertiser page
Lake City's only underground gift shop, museum & mine tour. Our guided tour takes you back 100 years. See how miners lived and experience the bygone age of hard rock mining. Try your luck at gold panning.
Pleasant View Resort & Rocky Mountain Jeep Rentals email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Waiting for your adventure -- a QUIET destination high in the San Juan Mountains. Modern and fully equipped cabins at the south end of Lake City. Rent NEW jeeps on-site for scenic drives. FREE WI-FI.
Rio Grande Angler & South Fork Anglers email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page
Everything for your fly-fishing needs in Creede & South Fork. Talk to our friendly staff, we pride ourselves in customer service & knowledge. Guided fly-fishing float & wade trips. Lessons & rentals available.

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More Activities & Information

Gunnison - includes Almont, Blue Mesa Lake, Ohio City, Parlin, Sargents, Sapinero, Taylor Park & Waunita Hot Springs
Lake City - includes Powderhorn
Creede
Wagon Wheel Gap
South Fork Area

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