Planning Your Visit

Are there restroom facilities along the byway?

Restroom facilities are primarily available in the five communities along the Gold Belt Byway and at major attractions such as Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and Red Canyon Park. These locations provide maintained restroom facilities during their operating hours. Between communities and major attractions, restroom facilities are extremely limited or nonexistent, particularly along remote sections of Phantom Canyon Road and Shelf Road.

We recommend using restroom facilities before departing from any byway community and planning your route to include stops at locations with known facilities. Picnic areas at Red Canyon Park along the lower Shelf Road and at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument offer convenient stopping points with restroom access. For visitors planning extended drives through remote sections of the byway, being prepared with this limitation in mind will enhance your comfort and enjoyment of the spectacular scenery and historic sites along the route.

More Answers About Planning Your Visit

Planning Your Visit
Are the roads suitable for all vehicles?
Not all roads on the Gold Belt Byway are suitable for all vehicle types, and careful planning is essential based on your vehicle size and capabilities. Phantom Canyon Road and the upper portion of Shelf Road are not recommended for trailers, campers, or motor homes, as these routes are winding... Read The Rest
Planning Your Visit
Do I need a four-wheel-drive vehicle?
Four-wheel drive is not required to enjoy the Gold Belt Byway under normal weather conditions, as all routes are accessible to standard passenger vehicles with adequate ground clearance. However, four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicles provide additional confidence and safety when navigating unpaved sections, especially during wet conditions or early... Read The Rest
Planning Your Visit
What is the best time of year to visit the byway?
The Gold Belt Byway offers unique experiences throughout the year, though late spring through early fall (May through October) provides the most reliable road conditions and access to all attractions. Summer months feature warm days perfect for outdoor recreation, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures ideal for hiking and... Read The Rest