Driving Colorful Colorado

Road travelers entering Colorado from any direction will see the sign welcoming them to "Colorful Colorado". Looking around the traveler may think "Huh?? This doesn't look like much!" Yet, within miles the meaning of that simple sign becomes clear. Colorado has a diversity of landscape one would expect while driving from state to state, not all within one state's borders. Snow capped mountains that soar over 14,000 feet, sagebrush covered hills, grassy ranges and high desert plateaus bump up against green valleys with graceful vineyards along the Colorado River --all creating a rich tapestry that draw millions of visitors each year, many who never leave. Colorado is definitely a "must drive" state if you want to fully appreciate not only the myriad landscapes but also the lifestyle unique to this Rocky Mountain region.

Entering Colorado from the Kansas side can be almost anticlimactic, and for a while you aren't sure if you are out of Kansas as the roads are seemingly flat, relatively straight and the scenery has altered very little. As you get closer to Denver the foothills of the Rocky Mountains raise their heads and it becomes obvious you are entering a whole new landscape. Leaving Denver to the west travelers will see some of the most breathtaking views along the drive up to Eisenhower tunnel, the 1.697 mile tunnel that takes you under the Continental Divide 60 miles west of Denver, and on over the Rocky Mountains through Vail Pass.

Driving in Colorado, like any mountain driving, can be a new experience for those who live in lower altitudes. The altitude changes as you drive over even seemingly slight inclines can cause ear and sinus pressure. You will change altitude regularly throughout the western part of Colorado even after you have driven over the main mountain ranges. Keep gum or snacks to chew on while driving from one altitude to another to help "pop" your ears so you don't end up feeling you are buried in a fog. For babies, a pacifier or bottle works well.

Momentum is the secret to mountain driving. Colorado natives can spot a "flat lander" every time by the way they are blocking traffic and crawling up a mountain. Utilizing momentum/gravity will definitely take away that sweaty forehead moment when you wonder if your vehicle is going to die in the middle of a steep incline while you keep a wary eye on the drivers bearing down on your rear end. Momentum is a simple science basically obtained by keeping a steady foot on the gas to avoid extreme rise or lowering of speed. When going down a pass, don't ride the brakes but also don't go all NASCAR driver wannabe flying down a steep mountain. Gear down and let your transmission slow your vehicle. When you use your brakes, press on them for a few seconds and let off. Over heated brakes are side effects of many inexperienced mountain drivers. If you encounter snow or ice avoid any quick movements of wheel, brakes, or gas.

Roads in Colorado are rarely straight or flat once you have left the extreme west or south of the State. Expect "hairpin" curves and winding roads, even along I-70. Safety precautions are also important when driving through the mountains or back roads. Always think of the "what ifs" and carry water, snacks, coats and a blanket in the car on any day trip. One of the truest sayings in Colorado is "the weather changes every five minutes and every five miles". You may drive up a lovely canyon in the sunshine and end up in a complete white out of snow. Although uncommon, snow is possible even during the summer months. Traveling the wilderness areas you don't want to be stranded without being prepared. Cell phone service can be limited in canyons and towns set back from the I-70 corridor so always let someone know where you are wandering.

Colorado cities and towns all have their own charm and sites to see but to simply fly into one area and venture no further you will be robbed of some of the states best scenery and experiences. For those with limited vacation time who fly into one of the major towns, renting a car to take day trips will give you enough of a taste for Colorado that will keep you coming back for years to come.