Scenic Drive to Durango!
On the map the entire journey seems unassuming…beginning westbound on US 50 from Canon City through a scenic canyon with the Arkansas river keeping you company just off the north edge of the roadway. If not for the promotional signage you might drive right past an unpretentious side road that leads to one of the highest bridges in the world…a breathtaking suspension bridge spanning Royal Gorge. Exiting the canyon you are greeted by the friendly town of Salida with plenty of options to fuel you up and stock you up for the journey ahead. Poncha Springs presents the first navigational choice…turn right to head west in the direction of Monarch Pass and Gunnison or north to go to South Park and eventually Denver or Vail. On this trip to Durango you turn left and proceed up a hill and then onto a high somewhat featureless plain known as the San Luis Valley. Thouth the valley floor is unremarkable, you will be treated to the seemingly unending string of gorgeous (and often snow-covered) p