Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways
Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage, much of which is accessible via the Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways. These designated highway and backroad routes are curated by the Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways Commission to highlight the state's most significant scenic and historic values. Travelers can easily identify these routes by the blue columbine logo—representing the Colorado state flower—posted along the way.
Established in March 1989, this program is one of the oldest state scenic byway initiatives in the United States. To date, the program has designated 26 byways covering 2,585 miles (4,160 km) of roadway within Colorado. When including extensions into adjacent states, the total network expands to 4,459 miles (7,176 km).
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Key Facts
- Network Size: 26 designated byways covering 2,585 miles within Colorado.
- Program Age: Established in March 1989, making it one of the oldest in the U.S.
- Federal Recognition: 21 of the 26 state byways also hold federal designations.
- National Leadership: Colorado has more combined All-American Roads and National Scenic Byways (13) than any other state.
- Identification: Routes are marked with the blue columbine state flower logo.
Byway Classifications and Designations
While the state commission manages the local program, four federal agencies provide additional designations based on specific criteria. The Federal Highway Administration designates National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads, with the latter being the highest possible honor. Additionally, the United States Forest Service manages National Forest Scenic Byways within National Forests and National Grasslands.
Types of Byway Labels
The Commission categorizes routes based on their primary appeal:
- Scenic Byway: Routes with predominantly scenic features.
- Historic Byway: Routes with predominantly historic features.
- Scenic and Historic Byway: Routes that possess strong attributes of both scenery and history.
Federal Overlap
Many Colorado routes hold multiple titles. For example, the San Juan Skyway is both an All-American Road and a National Forest Scenic Byway. Other routes, such as the Grand Mesa, Highway of Legends, and Silver Thread byways, share both National Scenic Byway and National Forest Scenic Byway designations. The Gold Belt Tour is unique in being both a National Scenic Byway and a Back Country Byway.
Administration and Selection Criteria
The Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways Commission is appointed by the Governor of Colorado. To ensure the quality and accessibility of the routes, the Commission collaborates with municipal and county governments, local byway organizations, and various public and private resources.
To be selected as a byway, a route must meet the following requirements:
- It must be an existing route with legal public access.
- It must be suitable for the prescribed types of vehicular use.
- Preference is given to routes that offer a combination of both scenic and historic features.
Notable Landmarks and Records
The byway system traverses some of the most extreme geography in North America. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway on State Highway 5 features the highest paved road in North America, reaching an upper terminus of 14,140 feet (4,310 m). Similarly, the Trail Ridge Road/Beaver Meadow National Scenic Byway on U.S. Route 34 is the highest continuous paved highway in North America, peaking at 12,183 feet (3,713 m).
The routes also pass through significant cultural sites. The Leadville Historic District and the Silverton Historic District are recognized as National Historic Landmarks. Natural wonders, such as the Spanish Peaks and the Slumgullion Earthflow, are designated as National Natural Landmarks.
| Designation Level | Number of Byways | Managing Authority |
|---|---|---|
| All-American Roads | 2 | Federal Highway Administration |
| National Scenic Byways | 11 | Federal Highway Administration |
| National Forest Scenic Byways | 10 | U.S. Forest Service |
| Back Country Byways | 3 | Bureau of Land Management |
| State Scenic and Historic Byways | 26 | CO Scenic and Historic Byways Commission |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I identify a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway while driving?
These routes are marked with a specific logo featuring the blue columbine, which is the state flower of Colorado.
What is the difference between a Scenic Byway and a Historic Byway?
A Scenic Byway is designated for its predominantly natural beauty, while a Historic Byway is recognized for its predominantly historical significance. Routes with both are labeled as Scenic and Historic Byways.
Which Colorado byway reaches the highest paved elevation?
The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway on State Highway 5 is the highest paved road in North America, reaching 14,140 feet.
Who manages the selection of these byways?
The Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways Commission, whose members are appointed by the Governor of Colorado, administers the program and selects routes based on accessibility and value.
Do these byways extend beyond Colorado's borders?
Yes. While there are 2,585 miles within the state, the total network including extensions into adjacent states reaches 4,459 miles.