Highway of Legends Scenic Byway

Walsenburg – Trinidad

Today we drove the 82-mile scenic byway from Walsenburg to Trinidad, Colorado via US160 and CO12 – the Highway of Legends.

Very little fall color appeared until we reached Cuchara. Along the ascent of 9,941’ Cucharas Pass, random aspen gave a preview of the coming golden glory. Across the valley, near the top of the pass, one grove gleamed in rich yellow/orange hues encircled by large stands of green aspen awaiting transformation.

Aspen are prolific along the section of CO12 between Cuchara and Monument Park. Many hillsides support dense stands. The tall thin trunks seem to form a while fence across the slopes.

While color changes enhanced the scenic byway route today the best is yet to come along the Highway of Legends. I would guess that within a week to ten days the area will be at its peak seasonal display.