West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

This remarkable 6-8 hour drive covers 205 miles of Colorado's most spectacular scenery. The twin summits of Mount Sopris and the incomparable Black Canyon of the Gunnison, anchor the ends of the West Elk Loop byway. Travel through Ute Indian territory and imagine the times that were had in the old west.

The gold rush days and the sweat of the pioneers left the mountain towns of Redstone, Carbondale, Hotchkiss, Crawford, Gunnison, Crested Butte, and others. Each is a slice of the "old west" for you to enjoy and explore.

This route will give you access to millions of acres of natural Colorado beauty including the White River National forest, Gunnison National forest, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument. Add to that, the Curecanti National Recreation Area and the Crawford and Paonia State Parks.

Note: the 31 mile long gravel section of the byway over Keebler Pass is closed during winter months.

For more information contact: United States Forest Service, PO Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623 (970) 963-2266

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