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 and narrow to one lane in many places. These historic roads follow old railroad grades and toll routes that were designed for smaller vehicles and require careful navigation through tight turns and steep grades.

Standard passenger vehicles, SUVs, and pickup trucks can navigate all byway roads under normal conditions, though high-clearance vehicles are beneficial on unpaved sections. Teller County Road 1 and High Park Road accommodate larger vehicles more easily and provide excellent scenic experiences without the narrow, winding sections found on Phantom Canyon and Shelf Roads. If you are traveling with a large vehicle or towing a trailer, we recommend planning your route to use the roads that can safely accommodate your vehicle size while still experiencing the beauty and history of the Gold Belt Byway.