AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway

Colorado
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
High Park Road · Public Domain. Courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

The Gold Belt Tour follows historic railroad and stagecoach routes leading to North America s greatest gold camp, three world-class fossil sites, and numerous historic sites. The Shelf and Phantom Canyon Roads cut along unpaved routes through winding canyons. Five byway communities allow a glimpse into this area s rich heritage.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineCripple Creek, Victor, Florissant and Cañon City region
High Park Road traverses scenic mountain parklands that have been cattle ranching country for more than 150 years. High Park Road offers impressive views of the surrounding mountain ranges and Pikes Peak.
High Park Road
Public Domain. Courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management · Photo credits
The Wilbur Loop was the name given to the segment of tracks that climbed 400 feet up steep switchbacks out of Phantom Canyon. Today, an overlook at the top of the loop provides a birds-eye view of Phantom Canyon.
Wilbur Loop Scenic Overlook
Public Domain. Courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management · Photo credits
GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO STOP

Places and landscapes to consider

  • Historic mining towns
  • Mountain viewpoints
  • Royal Gorge region

Before you drive

The byway network includes unpaved roads such as Phantom Canyon. Select an appropriate paved itinerary for a motorcoach rather than assuming the whole network is suitable.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.