The highest paved continuous highway in the United States, Trail Ridge Road climbs over the Rockies between Grand Lake and Estes Park. The views and driving are unparalleled; at 12,183 feet, you’re on par with many of the surrounding peaks.
We started in Grand Lake, passing through the Kawuneeche Valley before climbing above it. Stopping for a few short hikes on the way up quickly confirmed the changing altitude: thinner air, lingering snowbanks, and new critters including marmots and pikas.
After passing though the tree line, where temperatures are too low on average to sustain tree growth, the ground changed to alpine tundra. These low, hardy plants and flowers dodge the high winds just a few feet above and are insulated by snow cover in the winter. Elk and big horn sheep venture here as well, and we saw a good number of elk grazing below the road.
Driving along the ridge is an experience: a two-lane road with a long drop-off, no guardrails, and 8 foot wooden poles marking the road for spring plowing. You can enjoy the view, too, but not too much! I realized how easy I had it as a passenger on all those family vacations where my dad drove.
After a few high, short hikes and a stop in the Alpine visitor’s center, we enjoyed lunch with a view at one of the many turnouts. Descending towards Estes Park, we reentered the trees, which were greener on this side, with fewer killed by beetle infestations. Passing through glacial valleys and Beaver Meadows brought us back to civilization, and a welcome break in Estes Park.
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