Old Fall River Road

“The bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you fail to make the turn.”

Helen Keller

Labor Day Weekend 2021: The mountains called my name and I merrily answered.

I spent half of my childhood living at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. And still, I see and experience new things every time I return. Old Fall River Road was no exception and it was one highlight on our four-day Colorado adventure.

Rocky Mountain National Park

This narrow, one-way, gravel and dirt road takes off inside the east entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center, elevation 11,796 feet above sea level.

“The Old Road” as the locals call it, opened in 1920 as the first route for automobiles within RMNP. It is about 9 miles of curves, switchbacks, no guard rails, waterfalls, off-the-beaten-path trails, and awe-inspiring beauty.

If driving the posted 15 mph speed limit it would take roughly 45 minutes to complete the route. However, we drove about 5 mph and I recommend giving yourself half of the day; it takes time, as you can see from my photos.

Alpine Visitor Center

The Alpine Visitor Center was an impressive stop and a much-needed break after the exploring. It is made up of two buildings. One filled with maps, museum-like displays, and rangers on duty to answer any questions. The other, a large souvenir shop and cafe that was packed with people, handcrafted cultural keepsakes, and incredible views.

I sipped on a cup of hot coffee, purchased my usual souvenir patch, and used a clean restroom, before heading out towards Grand Lake and more mountain majesty.

My Travel Recommendations

I highly recommend adding Rocky Mountain National Park and Old Fall River Road to your list of must-see adventures… if you also hear the mountains calling your name.

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Photos by Kiefer Waight of Appealing Studios. For more: https://www.instagram.com/kieferwaight/

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