Colorado River Headwaters, designated as a National Scenic Byway in 2005, is a stretch of water between Grand Lake and State Bridge that offers world-class fishing, rafting, canoeing, and family recreation. This byway is a Rocky Mountain waterway, situated between lush meadows and red rock gorges, yet known as the source that provides power to the Southwestern United States. The route starts at Grand Lake, an old resort town named after the lake where it resides, and ends in the scenic yet gravelly Upper Gore Canyon. In the winter, Grand Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, offering snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling.
Known as the “Western Gateway,” Grand Lake also connects to the Rocky Mountain National Park, a 415 square mile protected land, with peaks that feature subalpine and alpine areas. The park offers hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife, and clear sky views. Relax in Hot Sulphur Springs, the county seat of Grand County, which lends itself to hiking, camping, fishing, or simply soaking in the famous hot sulphur springs in nearby Kremmling. Here there are 23 pools of healing waters. This spectacular byway drops 1,700 feet from top to bottom and reveals endless natural wonders on its decline.