scenic byway scenic byway

Frontier Pathway Scenic Byway

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In the 1840's, easterners made their way across the Appellation mountains to settle down in the West. Here, ranches, farmsteads, trading posts, and stage stops established the culture of the West. The Frontier Pathway boasts a rich history of the early years of Colorado. As you travel along the byway, you can experience some of the joys and sorrow that people of the 1800s also encountered. Starting in Pueblo, you can travel through the San Isabel National Forest and head down toward Colorado City. Allow a little over 4 hours to see everything there is on this 103 mile byway.

Some of the joys from the 1800s still exist today in the scenery of the area. The pastoral scene along the Frontier Pathway includes the 100 mile long Sangre de Cristos mountain range. Also along the pathway are sharp mesas, hogbacks, the Hardscrabble Canyon and the Arkansas River. In the San Isabel National Forest are the Wet Mountains and Greenhorn Valley. Since these attractions are not a very well known area, here you can escape to solitude and see diverse plants and animals. In the Wet Mountains is the 40 acre Lake Isabel, a perfect place to spend time fishing, hiking, or picnicking.

If you enjoy historical monuments, there are many along the Frontier Pathway. Be sure to visit the Bishop Castle, built in 1969 entirely with a wheel barrel and shovel. The town of Rosita is also along the byway. This old ghost town has buildings dating as far back as the 1800s. Visit the Westcliff School House, built in 1891. To this day, no one is sure why the 'e' is not at the end of the name Westcliffe.

If activity is more your style, there is fishing available in both the Arkansas River and Lake Isabel. Also, you can back pack, hike, and technically assault the 14,295' Crestone peak. In the winter, you can ice fish, cross-country ski, and downhill ski. Along parts of the byway are also 4 foot paved shoulders for bicyclers to travel on the byway.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

Alpine Lodge - Dinner Restaurant, Lounge, Cabins & Special Events email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page
Quaint mountain cabins near Westcliffe, nestled among pines. Borders San Isabel National Forest with its famous Rainbow Trail into the high country. Peaceful atmosphere and good food - Prime rib nightly.
cabins weddings groups scenic byway fishing restaurants

Antler Motel, General Store & Liquor mutual link button on advertiser page
In downtown Westcliffe with phones, satellite TV & WI-FI. Along the Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway. In the winter cross-country ski and snowshoe. Special rates during hunting season!
motels scenic byway

Indian Springs Ranch email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page
A Registered National Natural Landmark for fossils - take a Fossil tour. 2,100 secluded, peaceful acres. 5 miles east of Canon City. A unique, accessible, destination campground - great for groups & reunions.
tents rv parks pool groups scenic byway rafting

Lodge at San Isabel, General Store & Restaurant photos on advertiser page
Cabins in Colorado's south central mountains in Rye, full-service restaurant (Mexican & American food), store and boat rentals, north of Rye next to Lake Isabel with trout fishing. Reunions & clubs welcome.
cabins scenic byway fishing restaurants

Pine Lodge mutual link button on advertiser page
Ask about off-season discounts. Within walking distance of beautiful Lake Isabel in scenic San Isabel. Just sit back and relax in our cozy cabins. Attractions: mountain gazing, hiking, biking, boating, & fishing.
cabins water scenic byway

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park mutual link button on advertiser page
It is a full day of family fun near Canon City! World's Highest Suspension Bridge, Incline Railway, Aerial Tram, Skycoaster, Wildlife Park, Carousel, Petting Zoo, Burro Rides, Restaurants & breathtaking views.
scenic byway attractions

Vessels for Honor Rafting Co. photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Fun and Adventure! Bighorn Sheep Canyon and The Royal Gorge Rafting! Groups discounts available. In Texas Creek between Salida and Canon City. A great way to spend time exploring the Arkansas River.
groups scenic byway rafting

W Ranch, The email link button on advertiser page
Two vacation rentals on 120 acres an 1-1/2 hours from Colorado Springs sandwiched between the Wet and Sangre de Cristo Mountain ranges in Westcliffe these homes offer solitude and outdoor adventure.
Vacation Homes scenic byway

Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, The email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page
Tours, tasting & gift shop near Canon City. The Abbey was established in 1926; the winery in 2002. Award winners include our Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Merlot. Plus fanciful fun wines.
scenic byway attractions fun stuff

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More Activities & Information

Cripple Creek - includes Victor
Pikes Peak Area - includes Black Forest, Cascade, Colorado Springs, Divide, Florissant, Fountain, Green Mountain Falls, Lake George, Manitou Springs, Monument & Woodland Park
Pueblo - includes Colorado City & Pueblo West
Royal Gorge Area - includes Canon City, Coaldale, Cotopaxi, Penrose & Texas Creek
San Isabel Area - includes Beulah & Rye

Alpine Scenic LoopCache La Poudre Scenic DriveColorado River HeadwatersCollegiate Peaks BywayDinosaur DiamondFlat Tops TrailFrontier PathwayGoldbelt TourGrand Mesa Scenic BywayGuanella PassHighway of LegendsLariat LoopLos Caminos Antiguos

Mount EvansPawnee Pioneer TrailPeak to Peak HighwayPikes Peak Road
San Juan SkywaySanta Fe TrailSilver Thread Scenic BywaySouth Platte River TrailTop of the RockiesTrail of the AncientsTrail Ridge RoadUnaweep/Tabeguache Scenic DriveWest Elk Scenic Loop
 

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