To let you in on a little secret, this is the best drive of the road trip. From Aspen head over independence pass on highway 82 - this two lane wonder sits at 12,095 feet elevation. Maybe pack a lunch so you can picnic overlooking the alpine lakes at the top. This is a sketchy road, so pay attention. If your a cyclist, this might be a bucket list item to knock off. There’s new views around every corner and it is down right beautiful. You’ll come down in the college mountain rage near our previous legs of the trip, but this time you’re going to go north on 24 through Leadville and drive “the back road” through Leadville to Copper mountain and take I70 to Breckenridge .
Leadville is home if Melenzana...if care about the swag to look the part, then stop here and gear up. Don’t be mad if what you want is out of stock, everything is hand made often that day and sells out fast. A great stop as you drive thigh Leadville.
Continue of route to “Breck” as anyone who's lived in Colorado longer than a few months will call it sits at 9,600 feet. This little mountain town has a whole different vibe than Glenwood Springs or Aspen. This town is full of great shopping, yummy food and beautiful hikes.
If you’re on the 14er kick, y can do 4 in a day here…Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln and Bross. Be sure to continue your research using expert advice as this is quite the feat.
Another secret that’s not to secret is the giant wooden troll, Isak Heartstone is located in the southeast corner by the Illinois gulch trailhead. There’s a catch, no parking here, so utilize the public transportation or get your working on to see this giant wonder.
There are more restaurants than you can imagine, so come hungry and get creative with your eating desires. This town has much to offer, and is a must see on your #roadtripacrossamerica #coloradostyle