Guanella Pass Road
Details
- Designation State Byway, Forest Service Byway (1991 )
- Location CO
- Length 22 miles
Overview
Due to its close proximity to the Mile High City, Denverites can gain easy access to a beautiful high-altitude wilderness. The area around the byway was once used for logging and mining, using the byway’s route as a wagon trail for traveling between Georgetown and Grant. Gold lured miners and others to the area, but it was silver that brought prosperity to the valley. Here also find Georgetown and Silver Plume, two of the state’s best-preserved Victorian towns, forming the Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District.
Driving Directions
(1) Drive west from Denver on US Hwy 285 for approximately 40 miles to Grant. Turn right on to Park County Route 62. Drive north 13.5 miles to Guanella Pass. (2) Drive west from Denver on Interstate 70. Exit at Georgetown. Follow Clear Creek County Route 381 south 11 miles to Guanella Pass.
Points of Interest
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Georgetown CO
Georgetown is home to the Georgetown Loop Historic Railrod, Hamill House Museum, Hotel De Paris Museum, and other attractions. It also offers numerous outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.
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Georgetown Loop Railroad
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is one of Colorado's most famous historic narrow gauge railroads. Its route travels high over the Devil's Gate Bridge and winds through a scenic Rocky Mountain pathway. Silver mine tours are available in conjunction with the train ride.
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Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours
Tour a fully operational gold mine and learn about the amazing history of the area. Witness firsthand the challenges of hard-working miners who struck gold in the mountains of Colorado.
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Grant CO
Grant is connected to Georgetown and I-70 via Guanella Pass. If you’re looking for a secluded and serene getaway, add Grant to your itinery. There’s a small eclectic gift shop, a dispensary, and a lodge that make up the Park County town. Situated along the banks of the North Fork of the South Platte River, it has great access to outdoor recreation.
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