Experience Western Colorado on a Thrilling Ride
Rev up your engines and embrace the spirit of adventure with an unforgettable motorcycle ride through the heart of Western Colorado, starting right here at Hotel Colorado! As the engines roar to life, set your sights on the horizon for the 190-mile Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway ride that unfurls with breathtaking vistas, winding roads, and memories to last a lifetime.
Before hitting the blacktop, kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Colorado. Fuel up with a full and hearty breakfast at Hotel Colorado Restaurant and Bar. If all you need is a quick bite and a cup to go, Legends Coffee and Gift Shop has you covered with barista-made brews and freshly-baked pastries. After breakfast, get ready for a dream ride through the Colorado high country.
From Glenwood Springs to Aspen: The Thrill of the Open Road
First up, Glenwood Springs to Aspen. Head south on Highway 82, feeling the rush of the wind as you blaze past snow-capped peaks and some of Colorado’s most fabled ski resorts. Keep an eye out for majestic Mt. Sopris, standing tall at nearly 13,00-feet, the snow-capped peak is a sight to behold. Then as you head further up the Roaring Fork Valley, cruise by Buttermilk Mountain, where the adrenaline-pumping action of ESPN’s X Games comes to life every January. In Aspen, Ajax Mountain dominates the scene. Before motoring up Independence Pass, take a break to stretch your legs with a stroll around this iconic ski town.
Ascending to the Summit: Conquering Independence Pass
Next up is the route from Aspen to the top of Independence Pass. Brace yourself for a thrilling 20-mile ride filled with top-of-the-world scenery and heart-pounding twists and turns. As you ascend to 12,095 feet, you’ll straddle the Continental Divide. Cut the rumble of the motor to breathe in the thin, crisp mountain air. Pause to snap photos at the vintage-style Continental Divide sign and the all-around panoramic views to mark the victory of summiting the highest paved pass in Colorado!
Navigating the Curves: Journey to Leadville and Minturn
Now, it’s time to conquer the curves as you descend from Independence Pass to the historic mining town of Leadville. Hold on tight as you navigate hairpin turns, surrounded by rugged alpine landscapes. The highway travels through Twin Lakes, named for two nearly identical glacial lakes. Also in the vicinity is Mt. Elbert, the tallest peak in Colorado. Slow down for lunch in Leadville, once one of America’s richest and rowdiest silver boomtowns. Take note of the historic buildings downtown, specifically the Delaware Hotel and the Tabor Opera House. Heading toward Minturn over Tennessee make a pit stop at Camp Hale, the former training ground of the elite WWII soldiers of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division.
Return to Tranquility: Reflections at Hotel Colorado
As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Hotel Colorado along I-70, where a warm welcome awaits. After nearly 200 miles of pure exhilaration, switch gears with a celebratory drink at the hotel bar. The Hotel Colorado Restaurant and Bar menu serves up everything from signature cocktails to fine wine and craft beer as well as all the appetizers to go with them.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a weekend warrior, Hotel Colorado invites bikers to make the historic hotel their homebase for the ride of a lifetime through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state. Learn more and make reservations to rumble into Hotel Colorado today!