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How long is the Gold Belt Byway?

The Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway spans 131 miles of diverse Colorado terrain, offering one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the state. The byway features four distinct roads that wind through varied landscapes ranging from rolling mountain parklands to deep rocky canyons. Each route provides unique scenery and historical significance dating back to the legendary Cripple Creek Gold Rush era.

The total mileage includes Phantom Canyon Road, Shelf Road, High Park Road, and Teller County Road 1, each offering different experiences and connecting points along the byway. Visitors can choose to drive the entire 131-mile route or select individual segments based on their interests, time constraints, and vehicle capabilities. The varied terrain and elevation changes throughout the 131 miles create opportunities to observe numerous plant and wildlife species unique to central Colorado.

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Which communities does the byway connect?

The Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway connects five vibrant Colorado communities, each offering unique experiences, local hospitality, and rich heritage. On the northern end of the byway, you will find Florissant, home to the renowned Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, along with the historic mining towns of Cripple... Read The Rest

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What are the four main roads that make up the byway?

The Gold Belt Byway consists of four main roads, each with distinct character and historical significance: Phantom Canyon Road, Shelf Road, High Park Road, and Teller County Road 1. Phantom Canyon Road follows the historic Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad grade through rugged canyon terrain, offering dramatic scenery and remnants... Read The Rest

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What is the Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway?

The Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway is a nationally designated scenic byway located in southern Colorado, connecting five historic communities through 131 miles of spectacular mountain roads. First designated as a BLM Backcountry Byway in 1989, it became one of Colorado's first five State Scenic and Historic Byways... Read The Rest

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Colorado Midland Railway Connection

The Colorado Midland Railway allowed passengers to disembark at Florissant to collect fossils as souvenirs during the late 1800s. This easy access helped make the petrified forest famous but also led to significant loss of specimens before the area was protected.

Twelve Railroad Stations

Twelve stations were established along the Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad grade to service trains hauling coal and supplies upgrade and gold ore downgrade. Ghost towns and interpretive signs along Phantom Canyon Road now mark where these bustling stations once stood.