Highlights of the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway

Photographers going on a scenic drive along Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway will need to long-focus their cameras in order to capture a sliver of the 100-mile-long Sangre de Cristos Range. As the backbone of the Rocky Mountains, the Sangre de Cristos' many grand peaks jut into the clear blue sky; seven peaks reach higher than 14,000 feet.

To take in the highlights of the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway, consider this must-see tour.

El Pueblo Museum: This museum, located in the town of Pueblo, gives you an opportunity to learn about the interaction of several different cultures: American Indian, Mexican, and American. It is a full-size replica of Old Fort Pueblo, which was used by fur traders and other settlers from 1842 to 1855. Fascinating artifacts, colorful murals, and interesting stories bring the history of the Pueblo area to life.

Buffalo Grazing
Byways.org
You might see buffalo like these as you drive
the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway.

Wetmore and Early Settlements: More than 150 years ago, buckskin-clad French traders, scrappy American farmers, and fur traders lived in nearby settlements. In the 1830s, three French trappers built a fort on Adobe Creek to facilitate trade with the Ute Indians. It was called Buzzard's Roost, or Maurice's Fort, after Maurice LeDuc. Later settlements in the area included Hardscrabble in 1844 and Wetmore in the late 1870s.

Sangre de Cristos Mountains (west of Silver Cliff): Miners, ranchers, and modern-day motorists have all marveled at this breathtaking view of the Sangre de Cristos. This 50-mile stretch of mountains includes 22 peaks that are more than 13,000 feet in elevation.

Westcliff Schoolhouse: This schoolhouse, located in the town of Westcliffe, was built in 1891. No one knows why the school name, still visible above the front doors as "Westcliff," was spelled without the e.

By exploring the old homesteads, stagecoach tops, settlements, and more along the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway, you'll get a taste of the life of the West's early settlers.

Find more useful information related to Colorado's Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway:

  • Colorado Scenic Drives: The Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway is just one of the scenic byways in Colorado. Check out the others.
  • Pueblo: Find out what there is to do in this city along the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway.
  • Scenic Drives: Are you interested in scenic drives beyond Colorado? Here are more than 100 scenic drives throughout the United States.
  • How to Drive Economically: Fuel economy is a major concern when you're on a driving trip. Learn how to get better gas mileage.