7 Breathtaking Scenic Drives in Colorado

Longtime Colorado dwellers will know that the state offers some of the grandest views in the country. From high alpine peaks to rolling aspen groves, the Colorado Rockies have it all and even America agrees. 11 out of 26 scenic byways in Colorado have been nationally designated as “America’s Byways” giving Colorado the state with the highest number of America’s Byways. For us on the Front Range, these gorgeous vistas are just a few miles away, and how you travel can make all the difference. When you’re driving a Mercedes-Benz, the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of breathtaking scenic drives in Colorado–to get you out exploring the Rockies in style. Whether you’re cruising in an efficient sedan, an all-wheel-drive SUV, or a luxury sports car, these stunning highways are sure to excite the driver in you. Get to know our state in the most enjoyable way possible when you explore the best scenic drives in Colorado from Mercedes-Benz of Littleton.

7) I-70

Interstates don’t usually excite the imagination, but that’s not the case in Colorado. Starting us off at number 7 is I-70. Running straight through the Rockies, I-70 provides all the stunning views with twice the efficiency. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to drive through the highest vehicular tunnel in the world at 11,112 feet! Colorado’s got a lot of big mountains. It’s even been called the Swiss Alps of the USA. I-70 is a quick gateway to some of the best skiing in the state, including Breckenridge, Vail, and Steamboat Springs. Don’t have a 4-wheel-drive? No problem! I-70 is impeccably maintained year-round, so you can cruise the sights in your Mercedes-Benz sedan.

Distance: Variable–up to 243 miles in Colorado (Map)
Highlights: Fast access to great sights, Eisenhower tunnel, well-maintained (More info)

6) Peak to Peak Highway

Our number 6 pick for scenic drives is the Peak to Peak Highway. Just a few miles from Denver, this magnificent highway offers a great weekend trip to Front Range dwellers. Named as a “Colorado Scenic Byway” it Stretches about 40 miles between Nederland and Estes Park. It is also Colorado’s oldest scenic byway being founded in 1918. Not only is the drive gorgeous it leads to historic and interesting places along the way. It can make a great day trip from Estes Park. Gravel roads cross the main highway and lead to ghost towns at Hesse and Apex. You can also follow others that lead to high country lakes.

There are many aspen trees mixed in with evergreens. In Fall, these golden trees combined with the high peaks create a masterpiece Leonardo da Vinci would be proud of. You might also spot some elk so keep your eyes open! The Peak to Peak is the perfect place to burn some rubber in your new Mercedes-Benz. Something powerful, like the 2018 Mercedes-AMG® GT S, is sure to crush the steep grades and sharp curves. Best of all, this is one of the scenic drives in Colorado that stays open year-round. You’ll find beautiful foliage in the summer and a serene snow-scape in colder weather. 

Distance: 42 Miles (Map)
Highlights: Close to Denver, great for sports cars, open year-round (More info)

5) Independence Pass

Coming in at number 5 is Independence Pass. This stretch of highway 82 provides drivers a glimpse of glaciers and a magnificent expanse of icy peaks. Experience the continental divide in all its glory from one of the highest paved passes in the state. The Summit is at a astonishing height of 12,095 feet. Fall offers up stunning aspen groves that make Independence Pass one of the most colorful scenic drives in Colorado. Feel free to stop and walk some of the paved paths that lead to scenic overlooks or hike one of the many plethora’s of trails ranging from easy to expert. Be sure to time you drive though because it is closed in the winter. Even if you can’t make the drive all the way up the pass; you can still catch up on your mining history in Twin Lakes or enjoy a skiers’ paradise in Aspen. 

Distance: 27 Miles (Map)
Highlights: Aspen trees, glaciers, high-alpine tundra (More info)

4) US Highway 50

Also known as the Loneliest highway in America our number 4 choice has a more historical tone to it. The route follows trails used by the Pony Express over the Central Overland Route. It started out as the Lincoln Highway before the formation of the U.S. Highway System. After the U.S. Highway System was created names were changed to numbers for a more uniform map. The US 50 has hundreds of sites and attractions to visit. You could drive across the highest suspension bridge in America, the Royal Gorge Bridge. Or drive through the Colorado National Monument where you’ll be surrounded with red rock canyons contrasted against a bright blue sky. Either way you’ll get plenty of time with just you and your Mercedes-Benz on the open road.

Distance: Variable–up to 285 miles in Colorado alone (Map)
Highlights: Diverse landscapes, long open stretches, low traffic (More Info)

3) Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park

Another nod to history is our number 3 choice Trail Ridge Road. Fondly called “The Highway To The Sky” it peaks at an elevation of 12,183 ft. Trail Ridge Road’s scenic drive is the highest paved elevation road in North America. Trail Ridge was used by Native Americans to cross the mountains which separated them from their homes located in the west and their hunting areas on the east. Native Americans called the trail “taienbaa” which is roughly translated as “Where the Children Walked”. The trail was so so steep that the children could not be carried and had to walk. It was paved in 1932 and is the best way to view Colorado’s gem, Rocky Mountain National Park. Furthermore, you can put your Mercedes-Benz through its paces with tight bends and long straightaways. Best of all, you’ll see jaw-dropping views on all sides the entire time. Although this is one of the scenic drives in Colorado that is closed most of the winter, you can still enjoy a visit to the park year-round.

Distance: 47 miles (Map)
Highlights: High elevation, 360 degree views, long winding turns (More Info) 

2) US Highway 285

Off the beaten path is our 2nd to last choice US Highway 285. The highway is not traveled by commuters which gives it a feeling of openness and freedom. Variety abounds on this state-spanning highway. Stretching from Denver to New Mexico, US 285 is the best way to see the most of Colorado. Along the way, you’ll pass the Collegiate Peaks, Pikes Peak, and countless other stunning mountains. Additionally, you’ll get a chance to visit some of Colorado’s best mountain towns. And, in the winter, 285 is a gateway to the best ski resorts in Colorado. Our favorite is Telluride, which is well worth the short detour. Finally, 285 overlaps with our list of best Colorado hot springs a few times, so you can get a good soak in along the way.

Distance: Variable–up to 423 miles into New Mexico (Map)
Highlights: Views of 14ers, long open road, elevation gain (More info)

1) Million Dollar Highway

This precarious road takes the scenic drives in Colorado’s number 1 spot. But, it also competes for most terrifying. The Million Dollar Highway has been called Colorado’s most dangerous road, and for good reason. You won’t find so much as a guard rail between you and a bottomless icy crevasse. Adrenaline-seekers will thrill at the sheer cliffs and icy roads. But, in warmer weather, more cautious travelers will still enjoy the fantastic views without the danger. Don’t miss a visit to the towns on either end of the drive, Silverton and Ouray, both of which offer a slice of the Old West. We highly encourage a car with 4MATIC® All-Wheel Drive, and we’ve got quite a selection at Mercedes-Benz of Littleton.

Distance: 23.4 miles (Map)
Highlights: Steep mountain cliffs, icy conditions, tight corners (More info)

The Right Car for Exploring Scenic Drives in Colorado

Whether you need all-wheel-drive for the snow, a fuel-efficient sedan for a long trip, or a performance sports car to amp up your driving experience, we’ve got you covered. Mercedes-Benz of Littleton offers a premier selection of new and used luxury vehicles to get you into the Mountains in style. Visit us today, or schedule a test drive to get started.