Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway
Local Visitor Information
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Explore Resources
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Byway Overview
Take a drive through the Flat Tops Wilderness, which is often credited as being one of the places that inspired the ethos of preservation in the West. Cut through the heart of the original White River Plateau Timberland Reserve, set aside in the late 19th century as the second unit of what eventually became the National Forest system.
Quick Facts
- Designation
- State Byway, Forest Service Byway (1992)
- Location
- CO
- Total Length
- 82 miles
Visitor Information & Byway Partners
Contact Details
For personalized travel assistance and local recommendations, please reach out to our regional visitor center.
Local Byway Partners
The Flat Tops Scenic Byway is located in the northwestern region of Colorado, and is just three hours from Denver and two hours from Grand Junction. From Yampa, the byway leads northwest on County Road 17, ending at Primary Forest Road 16 within 5 miles. The byway then heads westward into Routt National Forest, passing both Trout Creek and Dunckley Pass. After leaving and re-entering the national forest, the byway follows Forest Road 8 leading through Buford and on to Meeker.
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Trappers Lake
Known as the "Cradle of Wilderness," this stunning 302-acre lake is a must-see.
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Flat Tops Wilderness Area
National forest on 235,214 acres, with volcanic cliffs up to 10,000 ft., valleys, lakes & trails.
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White River National Forest
A vast forest with diverse ecosystems.
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Allen Basin Trailhead
This Trailhead serves as the access point for the Allen Basin Trail No. 1181. The 1-mile-long doubletrack route grants access to Allen Basin reservoir. Note: This trail is closed to all vehicles over 50” in width.