The Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway is a route that may be found in western Colorado. This route is both beautiful and varied. To further acquaint you with the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway, the following information is provided:
The circular route that the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway takes covers roughly 133 miles in total distance. It begins near Whitewater, which is located south of Grand Junction, and continues through the Unaweep Canyon while traveling along State Highway 141. The route then proceeds down State Highway 145, past Norwood, and finally completes a circuitous route back to Whitewater.
Geological Characteristics That Are Unparalleled The breathtaking geological characteristics that may be found along this beautiful byway are undoubtedly one of the highlights. The Uncompahgre Plateau is traversed by the steep and slender Unaweep Canyon, which is located in Colorado. It is famous for the tall cliffs, sheer rock walls, and rough beauty that it possesses. In addition, the byway travels through the breathtaking red sandstone canyons that are found along Tabeguache Creek.
Access to a Number of Different Outdoor Recreational Activities The Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway offers access to a Number of Different Outdoor Recreational Activities. Hiking, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing, fishing, and animal viewing are just some of the activities that outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy. The region is home to a rich variety of species, some examples of which are bighorn sheep, mule deer, and several birds of prey.
Significance to History: There is evidence of human occupation on the byway that dates back thousands of years, giving it significant importance to history. Ute Indians and members of other indigenous Native American tribes formerly called this area home. In addition, the byway travels through regions that were significant to early mining and ranching industries in the latter half of the 19th century and the early 20th century.
vistas: The entire drive on the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway features stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Panoramas of steep gorges, towering cliffs, colorful rock formations, and huge stretches of high desert landscapes are available for tourists to take in while they travel. Along the road, there are a number of pull-offs and overlooks that provide excellent chances for photography.
Campgrounds, picnic spots, and trailheads are just some of the recreational facilities that may be found along the byway. Other amenities include restrooms and drinking fountains. These offer the chance to take a break, enjoy a meal, and become acquainted with the stunning natural scenery in the area.
The Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway travels through some of the state of Colorado’s most inaccessible and undeveloped regions, including some relatively unspoiled wilderness. Visitors have the opportunity to get away from the rush and bustle of city life and completely submerge themselves in the natural world thanks to the landscape’s untamed and untouched appearance.
The byway puts on a spectacular show of fall colors throughout the season of autumn, when the leaves are changing color and falling from the trees. The transformation of the aspen tree’s leaves into vivid gold, orange, and crimson hues contributes to the already breathtaking picturesque splendour of the surrounding landscapes.
More Historic Information About This Scenic Byway
The nostalgia of a twisty, two-lane roadway can be found on the Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway. Starting as Colorado Highway 145 near Telluride, the route parallels the San Miguel River past old placer mining sites. Meadows and farm land dominate as the route shifts to Colorado Highway 141 near Naturita. Down the highway stand the uranium/vanadium-mining remains of Uravan.
The canyon deepens as the San Miguel River meets the Dolores. Here, bolted to towering sandstone cliffs, run the remains of Hanging Flume. Built in the late 1800s, the seven-mile aqueduct delivered water to power mining operations.
The road and river descend to Gateway, a community revitalized by Discovery Channel founder John Hendricks. There, he built the Gateway Canyons Resort and opened the Gateway Colorado Auto Museum. The prize of his 40-vehicle car collection is a 1954 Olds F-88 concept car, which Hendricks purchased for $3 million.
The route continues northeast through Unaweep Canyon, passing a habitat for rare butterflies and a stone mansion constructed in the 1910s by a wealthy New Yorker. The byway ends 15 miles southeast of Grand Junction.