10 | Alpine Loop

Length: 63 miles. Driving time: 4-6 hours.
Open Late May through September
Designated a National Scenic Byway

The 65-mile Alpine Loop travels through a surreal landscape of treeless tundra, and mountains seemingly splashed with red and yellow paint

The well-prepared motorist reaps unparalleled rewards: pristine mountain views, hiking and biking trails, great camping opportunities, and ample solitude. These rocky roads were first used by 19th-century miners, who carted their ore off to Silverton, Ouray, and Lake City in mule-drawn wagons. Spend an afternoon exploring abandoned townsites, structures, and other former mining haunts – if you want to commune with ghosts of Colorado’s rich past.

Nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains, the Alpine Loop Back Country Byway is an expedition in and of itself. Far from the hassles and routine of the outside world, the Alpine Loop traverses 65 miles of Colorado’s remarkable mountain terrain. Enter a world of towering pine trees, glistening lakes, and fresh mountain air: a combination guaranteed to bring out your inner explorer

Features include:

• Main Towns: Ouray, Silverton
• 7 ghost towns
• 2 high alpine passes
• Uncompahgre National Forest
• Many Abandoned Mines and Ghost Towns, two of which are Whitecross and Capitol City
• Mayflower Mill – National Historic Landmark
• Old Hundred Mine, opened in 1872 and operated for 101 years is open for tours that show mining techniques

Wildlife: Elk, Deer, Black Bear