For even more scenic drives, check out our 26 scenic and historic byways.
1. Fall River Road to St. Mary's Alice Glacier
Distance: 9 miles one way
From Denver, take I-70 west to exit 238 (Fall River Road). Follow Fall River Road north for 9 miles to the St. Mary's Alice trailhead. Although not restricted to 4WD vehicles, the road is very steep and winding.
Despite its name, St. Mary's Alice glacier is more of a perennial snowfield because it doesn't flow. You will see, however, the changing fall colors of dense willows and Rocky Mountain bristlecone pines. This winding alpine drive is convenient and easy to find, ending with the option of a short, moderately difficult hike.
If you decide to attempt the 1.5-mile hike to the "glacier" and lake, there is a fee to park. 1.5 miles might not sound long, but it is an uphill climb at elevations reaching 11,000 feet. Your reward for your hard work: stellar alpine views and the rare right to say you've hiked a perennial snowfield.
2. Conifer to South Park over Kenosha Pass
Distance: 54 miles one way
Start in Conifer, 15 miles southwest of Denver. Travel along Route 285 traversing Kenosha Pass. End in Fairplay, the largest town in the South Park valley.
TV fans recognize the name South Park from the eponymous animated series, but only the most dedicated fans know that the show is actually based on the writers' experiences growing up in Conifer, not South Park. This drive connects both of these areas via high-altitude Kenosha Pass, which is wide and well maintained, with easily navigated turns. It is one of the best drives in Colorado to view autumn's leaves — vibrant reds and glowing yellows of the aspen woodlands are a striking contrast to the ponderosa pines and Douglas firs around Conifer. The pass eventually spills out into the high grassland basin of South Park, where unobstructed views of the Mosquito Range peaks appear in the west.