We came to Gunnison to ride the bike in this beautiful area of the Rockies. For today’s trip we rode CR 149—the Silver Thread Scenic and Historic Byway (so named because it connects several silver mining areas).
We had two purposes for riding the Thread today. First we wanted a fairly short ride (this one was about 160 miles round trip) because we wanted to return before the predicted afternoon rain started. The other reason was to check out the route to see if it was drivable in our rig. After our stay here we move to the Durango area. The direct route between Gunnison and Durango is too steep and twisty to be safe pulling our trailer, and the other roundabout routes added about 100 miles to the distance. Taking 149 to South Fork and picking up US 160 to Durango is the best alternative, if it is safe with our rig.
The Silver Thread crosses two mountain passes and wanders along the Rio Grande Valley. We took the route as far as the historic mining town of Creed then retraced our route. (The road straightens and levels out between Creed and South Fork, and as such will be safe driving.)
As we went along we crossed and recrossed the Continental Divide at the Spring Creek Pass, elevation 10,898 ft.
We also went over Slumgullion Summit, elevation 11,530 ft. twice.
We took our time, stopping at most of the scenic pull offs and reading the info boards. At one we were able to view the mountain where the Rio Grande originates. We followed along the river as it twisted and turned through the valley all the way to Creed. In Creed we found a place for lunch, fueled up the bike and headed for home.
Our ride was most satisfactory. We enjoyed the scenic views and historical information and found the road to be safe for travel to Durango.
Sorry I can’t share more pix with you.
Louise and Duane
No comments:
Post a Comment