Driving the Gold Belt Tour: Colorado's Most Scenic Byway
A complete guide to exploring the Gold Belt Tour scenic byway, connecting Canon City to the historic mining towns of Cripple Creek and Victor.
A Journey Through Colorado's Mining Heritage
The Gold Belt Tour is a 131-mile scenic byway that loops through some of Colorado's most dramatic landscapes and historic mining districts. Starting in Canon City, the route climbs through mountains, passes ghost towns, and reveals the story of Colorado's gold rush era.
Planning Your Drive
Allow a full day to properly experience the Gold Belt Tour. The route includes both paved and unpaved sections, so check conditions before starting. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for Phantom Canyon Road and Shelf Road, though passenger cars can handle the paved alternatives.
Route Options
Phantom Canyon Road: This 35-mile route follows the old Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad grade through narrow Phantom Canyon. You'll pass through tunnels and see remains of the railroad era. The road is unpaved and can be rough, but the scenery is spectacular.
Shelf Road: Famous for its rock climbing, Shelf Road is a dramatic unpaved route carved into cliff faces. The views are stunning, but it's not for nervous drivers - sections have steep drop-offs with no guardrails.
High Park Road: The paved alternative when the unpaved roads are impassable or if you prefer smooth driving.
Must-See Stops
Cripple Creek: Once called 'the world's greatest gold camp,' this historic mining town now offers casinos, museums, and preserved Victorian architecture. The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour takes you 1,000 feet underground.
Victor: The 'City of Mines' is quieter than Cripple Creek and feels more authentically preserved. Wander the streets and imagine the town in its 1890s heyday when it rivaled Denver in size and importance.
Garden Park Fossil Area: Detour to this significant paleontological site where famous dinosaur fossils were discovered during the 'Bone Wars' of the late 1800s.
Safety Tips
Check weather conditions before driving unpaved sections. Summer afternoons can bring sudden thunderstorms. Carry plenty of water and a full tank of gas. Cell service is spotty throughout the route. Let someone know your plans.
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Last updated: January 6, 2026
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