How Do I Take the Scenic Route from Denver to Fort Collins?

The I 25 corridor is the default way to access the front range. Sometimes, though (especially on the motorcycle), you want a more beautiful and relaxed ride. Plus, during rush hours, it takes almost as much time to go the highway as the pleasure cruise, so why not? Here is a great way to go all the way from Denver to Fort Collins on some of the best roads in America. The Googlemap route puts it at 95 miles, 2 hours and 37 minutes. That's a lot of scenery in under 3 hours.

From Golden to Boulder

This the western route, and it starts with a bang on C0-93. Panoramic views of the very start of the Rocky Mountains greet you along the way. This is a two lane highway that goes straight to Boulder. It pretty much turns into Broadway and takes you through town and spits you out on the other end. Continue north.

Boulder to Lyons

It's a really fast trip. Lyons has plenty to offer in terms of food, drink and the views are great. Lots of mesas. From here, a decision must be made. Up to Estes Park, or along the last of the plains on Highway 287? Both are Beautiful.

Lyons to Estes Park

Prepare your jaw, because it is about to start gaping. I often think of Teddy Roosevelt treading the same paths and saying, "This beauty must be preserved" as I first lay eyes on Rocky Mountain National Park. You're in it on this leg of the journey.

Estes to Loveland

Ready to lean? Take windy and beautiful Thompson Canyon until you trickle into Loveland, CO. Take in some sculpture in any of Loveland's area parks, lakes or trails.

If you take the 287 route, you can start looking northwest for the first glimpses of Horsetooth all the way from Berthoud.

Loveland to Fort Collins

I'm trying to come up with a mnemonic device for 'Wilson becomes Taft, Taft becomes Shields" but I haven't yet. I think the best way to learn is to live here for a long time and screw it up enough times that you just remember. That's what I did. However, both Taft and Shields offer stunning views of the Rockies, morning and night. And both plop you right back in Fort Collins, probably feeling that we are quite fortunate to live where we do.

How much do you love Colorado?

Here is the Googlemap route.