Old Fall River Road

Old Fall River Road is the park's original road across the mountains, opened in 1920 and later overtaken by the faster, paved Trail Ridge Road. It climbs about nine miles from the Endovalley area up to the Alpine Visitor Center, on gravel, one way uphill, with tight switchbacks and steep drop-offs. Drivers move slowly, often at ten to fifteen miles per hour, and the journey is its own reward: the road passes Chasm Falls, climbs through spruce and fir and emerges above treeline, with long views back down the valley. It is an old-fashioned drive, with narrow curves and wildlife often seen from the car window. Along the lower section there is an alluvial fan, a large fan-shaped deposit of rock left by a flood in the 1980s, which is a short walk from the parking area. The road is closed to vehicles in winter and typically opens in early summer once the snow has been cleared, and it closes again in autumn.

Because the road is narrow, gravel and one way, it is not suited to large vehicles, trailers or low-slung cars; check the park's current vehicle restrictions before you go. Drive slowly, use low gears on the descent from the visitor center via Trail Ridge Road, and give uphill traffic time to pass. Pullouts are limited, and there are sections where the edge falls away steeply. Nervous drivers or those who dislike heights may prefer to leave the road to someone else or choose a guided tour.

The best time to drive it is in the middle of the season, from mid-summer to early autumn, when the road is clear and the weather is more stable. September can add golden aspens on the lower slopes and bugling elk in the valley. Early morning is quieter, and the light is better for photography. Allow at least an hour to drive the uphill section, more if you stop, and plan to return via Trail Ridge Road so you complete a loop.

During the busy season, a timed entry permit may apply to the time you plan to enter, so check the current rules. Bring layers and water, a full tank of gas and a picnic. There are few services in the park, and the Alpine Visitor Center at the top has a snack bar and restrooms.

Combined with Trail Ridge Road and the Fall River entrance, the old road makes an excellent half-day drive and gives a sense of how early visitors experienced the park, bumping along at the speed of a Model T. Walking and cycling are also possible on some days; check the park's guidance.

If you are traveling with children, make the drive a game: count waterfalls, spot marmots, and keep track of how many switchbacks you pass. Bring snacks, because there are few places to stop for food. Give yourself enough daylight to finish the drive, and remember that cell coverage is unreliable, so tell someone your plans. The slow pace and constant scenery make the road one of the more memorable parts of a visit.

Before you set out, check that your vehicle has enough fuel, good brakes and sufficient clearance for gravel. Slow down on blind corners and keep your windows down so you can hear oncoming traffic on the connecting roads. At the top, walk the short trail near the Alpine Visitor Center to stretch your legs. If you meet a cyclist or hiker on the road, give them lots of space and pass slowly.