There is much to do and see in Fourteener Country. The avid outdoorsman will marvel at the abundance and quality of the areas outdoor recreational opportunities. Those wanting a special, relaxing mountain escape will be in awe of the beauty this area offers. One can take a leisurely drive through the mountains on one of the Scenic Byways; see old mines and sparkling reservoirs, peaceful roads lined with history and beauty to take your breath away. Historic districts and ghost towns dot the landscape by the fistful. There are museums, scenic trains, hot springs, wildlife viewing, shopping and more. Below you’ll find information and listings to help you design the perfect sight-seeing trip to the Central Colorado Mountains.
This scenic drive is one where you will enjoy thorough mountain experience for the entire day. The 10.6 mile drive from Nathrop to St. Elmo in Chaffee County has hot springs, hiking trails, roadside a... Details
A popular year round drive is inside Clear Creek Canyon in far northern Chaffee County. In the fall this drive offers spectacular aspen viewing.
From Buena Vista, travel 15 miles north on H... Details
One of the closest place to enjoy the fall foliage is directly west of Buena Vista. At the traffic light, travel on West Main Street, which becomes Chaffee County Road 306. Head into the mountains. At... Details
Not many places in the country have such large amounts of aspen trees as Colorado does, arguably the most admired leaf-bearing tree in the state. When the sunlight reflects just right on yellow aspen ... Details
Not all mines in central Colorado are from the 1880's. Although the second half of the nineteenth century did enjoy the Pike's Peak Gold Rush, the Latchaw Mine wasn't begun until 1901. Loc... Details
Due to private ownership, St. Elmo, in the Sawatch Mountains 20 miles to the southwest of Buena Vista, is the best preserved ghost town in the area. In fact, if there are actual ghosts, they share the... Details
Top of the Rockies Byway National Scenic Highway and Historic Byway.
In 1999 this 115-mile stretch was designated as one of only 53 roads in the United States as a National Scenic Byway. &nbs... Details
Probably one of the most beautiful places to enjoy the fall colors is via Highway 82 from Twin Lakes to Independence Pass. (From Buena Vista, travel north on Highway 24 for 22 miles and turn west at t... Details