37 Starting in the Roaring Fork Valley in Carbondale, the West Elk Loop heads up the Crystal River, offering a stop in the historic hamlet of Redstone, where the 42-room Redstone Castle can be toured. After crossing McClure Pass, the byway drops into the North Fork Valley, a region synonymous with farm-fresh cherries and apples. From the town of Hotchkiss, the route bends to the south and skirts the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, a 2,700-foot deep chasm, that is now preserved as a national park. Next up is Gunnison, which is equal parts college town and ranching community. The byway then heads north to Crested Butte which is famous for its preserved Victorian architecture (and renowned ski resort). The circuit is completed by crossing over Kebler Pass, an area that locals cherish in September when massive groves of aspen bear bright gold foliage. 70 GLENWOOD SPRINGS 82 CARBONDALE White River National Forest 133 Grand Mesa National Forest ASPEN REDSTONE McClure Pass Redstone Castle 82 PAONIA HOTCHKISS 133 Kebler Pass CRESTED BUTTE Gunnison National Forest 92 Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Blue Mesa Reservoir 135 GUNNISON 50 114 149 (Note: The portion over Kebler Pass is closed in winter.) Distance: 205 miles • Allow 7 hours Total elevation gain: 5,351–9,980 feet
Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways 2024/2025: Page 37
