One more place to enjoy near Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado
Old Fall River Road provides a different kind of driving experience compared to Trail Ridge Road. It was established in 1920 and allows drivers to get closer to the natural wilderness of the park. This road is 11 miles long and can be traveled in one direction only. Starting from Horseshoe Park, it ascends towards Fall River Pass, featuring several switchbacks and primarily gravel terrain. For safety reasons, there are no guardrails, so the speed limit is set at a manageable 15 mph. Along the way, visitors can make a stop at the Endovalley Picnic Area, which offers a great location for a leisurely lunch. If you prefer, you can also turn around and head back down the road from there. Restroom facilities are available in the area as well.
To fully enjoy the experience of driving Old Fall River Road, it is recommended to have a car with some four-wheel-drive capabilities, although it is not absolutely necessary. Travelers who have previously taken this route advise that the journey itself holds more significance than reaching a specific destination. They suggest taking your time to appreciate the various scenic spots along the way, ranging from breathtaking waterfalls to vibrant foliage. Another advantage of choosing Old Fall River Road is that you can avoid a significant portion of the nearly 3-mile hike to Chasm Falls, a well-known waterfall attraction. However, if you’re afraid of heights, it’s advisable to let someone else take the wheel, as there are sections with steep drop-offs.