PLACE 40 West Elk Loop Scenic Drive.

April 23, 2022

Hi, The West Elk Loop Scenic Byway from Carbondale to Hotchkiss on Hwy 133 was our route. We want to record some more of our discoveries in this area of Colorado.

The Crystal Valley Trail goes from Carbondale 7 miles to the KOA. It can be seen on the left side of the road. By riding the Crystal Valley Trail from KOA to Carbondale and then take the Rio Grande Trail, one could ride all the way to Aspen on a bike. That would be a fun trip especially if you stopped at Woody Creek Tavern ( 2858 Upper River Road Woody Creek ) for a cold drink on their patio. This stop would be about half way.

This is the Carbondale/Crystal River KOA Holiday. A Rocky Mountain Campground on the Crystal River. They have Cabins, RV and tent sites. The RV and tent sites open in May.

This is the view before reaching Redstone.

We sure liked the looks of this campground. The Redstone Campground has 3 loops: Osgood Loop, Allgeier Loop, Mechau Loop. This is a Forest Service Campground in the White River National Forest. This is one of the more modern Forest Service Campground. It has spaces for all size RV, and tent. There are water hook ups in some sites for RVs. They even have a shower. This campground doesn't open until the middle of May.

This is bear country so some rules need to be followed such as putting trash in bear proof dumpsters, lock coolers and food boxes in cars, keep tent clean and free of anything with an odor and don't sleep in clothes that you cook in.

Bear Boxes for food are provided in this campground. We are looking forward to when this campground opens. The reservations can be made at recreation.gov

Spring runoff in the mountains. Its pretty but can be dangerous. Pets and children need to be monitored at these sites.

McClure Pass although not a high pass is one of the steepest paved roads in Colorado. It is open year round and only closes during heavy snow storms. Near the top is a parking area and the views are wonderful!