Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic Byway

Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway sweeps past waterfalls and geological formations and travels near Native American buildings and petroglyphs by way of Unaweep Canyon. The Gunnison and Colorado Rivers used to flow through the canyon until Uncompahgre Plateau pushed its way through the shale 8 million years ago, causing the water to find a new route.

Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway sweeps past waterfalls and geological formations and travels near Native American buildings and petroglyphs by way of Unaweep Canyon. The Gunnison and Colorado Rivers used to flow through the canyon until Uncompahgre Plateau pushed its way through the shale 8 million years ago, causing the water to find a new route.

The area offers natural beauty and historic intrigue. Abundant cottonwoods and pines line the canyon, making it a magical drive. Along the byway there are many sightseeing opportunities and things to do. Highway 141 gives boater's access to the Gunnison River at Whitewater and to the Dolores River at Gateway. The byway also provides people with access to hiking and biking on the many trails on Bureau Land Management (BLM) land and the Uncompahgre National Forest. Wildlife is abundant in this area; since January 1987 the Palisade area north of Gateway has been designated by the BLM as an "Outstanding Natural Area" to be enjoyed for its primitive natural beauty. Recreation is also available in Cactus Park, and it provides access to the BLM's Dominique Canyon Wilderness Study Area.

Like many areas in Colorado, this byway leads visitors through part of Colorado's journal of mining history. On the West side of the byway, a wooden water flume is nestled in the stone cliffs and a dome-shaped coke oven built in the 1880s still survives. The oven was used to heat coal and produce coke, a material that burns smoke free. Another attraction is the Driggs Mansion and Interpretive Sign. It is the remains of a building built by a wealthy New Yorker around 1915. The walls of the building are sandstone that was cut from the Mayflower Canyon.

This byway has so much to offer in the way of natural scenery, history and recreational activity. From the waterfalls, forests, wildlife and beautifully colored layers of sandstone to the old mining attractions to rafting and hiking, there is something to appease every palate. The canyons had much to offer the early settlers and minors, and they still have a lot to offer visitors today.

More Activities & Information

Delta
Dove Creek - includes Naturita & Nucla