Colorado--Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway
Date: 2004-11-14
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The Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway is a five-hour or longer drive from Whitewater to Placerville via Rte. 141 and 145. Side trips can add many miles to what is one of the most breathtaking drives anywhere in the Colorado Mountains. This 133-mile drive crosses the Uncompahgre Plateau through the Unaweep Canyon. Begin the trip on Rte. 141 in the town of Whitewater. Enter the Unaweep Canyon and make a quick stop at the Grand Valley Overlook. The view here is unbelievable. Next take a left and follow Divide Road which climbs two miles to a cattle guard, where you can view the Great Unconformity, a distinct line between Precambrian granite and Triassic sandstone that represents a 2.2 billion-year gap in geological history.
Return to Rte. 141 and head west to the Unaweep Divide, where East Creek and West Creek flow in opposite directions. After passing Driggs Mansion the canyon narrows, where you find the West Creek Picnic Area. Beyond, the road opens up to the west side of the Uncompahgre Plateau. At the next town of Gateway, you enter the Dolores River Canyon. Thirty miles along the river takes you to the Hanging Flume, a seven-mile wooden trough bolted to the canyon wall, a must to see. After the town of Norwood, the road returns along the San Miguel River towards Placerville. Here, you can pick up the San Juan Skyway and make the return journey or drive on.
Starting Point:
Whitewater, CO
Distance of Drive:
133 Miles
Must Eat:
Hanging W Chuckwagon
160 Whiting Road, Whitewater, CO 81527
Phone: 970-256-9314
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring and summer
Points of Interest on Drive:
Dolores River Canyon Uncompahgre National Forest
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