The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is a 65-mile long scenic drive through the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, starting in Lake City, passing through the towns of Ouray and Silverton, and ending back in Lake City. The byway offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys and is known for its scenic beauty and historic mining towns.
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is a dirt road that winds through the mountains, providing access to some of the most remote and rugged parts of the San Juan Mountains. The byway is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall, and is suitable for high clearance vehicles and four-wheel drive vehicles. The byway passes through several historic mining towns, including Silverton, which was once a bustling mining community and is now a National Historic Landmark.
The byway offers several hiking, camping and fishing opportunities, including the Chicago Basin, which is a popular spot for backpacking, and the Wager Gulch Trail, which offers a scenic hike to an abandoned mining town. The byway also offers several scenic overlooks, including the Animas Overlook, which offers a panoramic view of the Animas River Valley, and the Cinnamon Pass, which offers a view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and historic significance. Visitors can expect to see a diversity of wildlife and plants, take in beautiful vistas and learn about the mining history of the area.