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
Is the byway open year-round?
While the Gold Belt Byway is technically accessible year-round, winter conditions may close or make certain roads impassable due to snow and ice accumulation at higher elevations. The roads surrounding Cripple Creek, Victor, and Florissant are particularly susceptible to winter weather due to their elevation, which reaches over 9,600 feet... Read The Rest
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
Where can I get gas, water, and supplies along the route?
It is essential to have enough gas, water, and other necessities to make it between the byway communities, as services are limited along the remote sections of the route. The five communities of Florence, Cañon City, Florissant, Cripple Creek, and Victor offer gas stations, restaurants, lodging, shops, and other convenient... Read The Rest