Directions

Idaho Springs is a nice stop off of I-70 after you get out of the Denver traffic.

Take the short nature walk under the highway along Clear Creek to see the old Charlie Tayler Water Wheel.

Walk the shops and restaurants on Miner Street - we recommend Main Street Restaurant for breakfast.

I-70 drives straight through the small town of Empire shortly after you pass Idaho Springs.

Stop at the tiny Valero Gas Station/Empire Food Mart for some snacks and drinks for the car ride.

There is an ice cream shop right across the street.

Drive the many switchbacks up through Berthoud Pass - elevation 11,307 ft - on the Continental Divide.

If there's not too much snow, pull off into the parking lot at the very top to stretch your legs.

Drive right through Winter Park ski resort and town.

Stop at Vicious Cycle Brewing right off Main Street in between Winter Park and Fraser and grab a beer inside and a grilled cheese from the food truck in their parking lot (it's dog friendly!)

Grandby is probably the largest town before you get to R&R Ranch.

It has Grandby Ranch ski resort - which is great for beginner skiers.

It has the closest grocery store - City Market - and hardware store - Ace Hardware - and several gas stations.

It also has a variety of restaurants in its downtown area - our favorite is Brickhouse 40.

Hot Sulphur Springs is the last town before you get to R&R Ranch.

There is not much to it, but this is where the road makes a sharp turn into a beautiful valley along the Colorado River - the most scenic part of the drive.

You are almost to R&R Ranch!