Over the past forty years, I have travelled almost every roadway in Colorado. One exception has been Colorado 67 from Divide (on U.S.24) southward to U.S. 50, passing along the west edge of the Pike's Peak massif. So, on this mild, sunny day in January, I decided to explore that route.
From Divide, one enjoys a spectacular view of Pike's Peak but, as you travel south on 67, the peak itself soon disappears behind its foothills. Nevertheless, multiple pullouts along the roadway offer spectacular views of the volcanic ridges to the west, backed by the high peaks of the distant Mosquito and Sawatch Ranges. Just beyond Tenderfoot Pass (10,200 feet), a parking area provides a pleasing view of Cripple Creek (photo) and of the jagged Sangre de Cristo Range to the southwest. After passing through the historic mining town, Colorado 67 winds along the base of the massive Newmont pit mine before reaching Victor, a smaller version of Cripple Creek.
Continuing southward as County Road 67, the route becomes a dirt road, covered with a glaze of snow today. This section of 67 follows the old bed of the Phantom Canyon railroad, soon beginning a long, winding descent toward the Arkansas River Valley. Narrowing to a single lane in some areas (including two tunnels) and rounding countless blind curves, it is not recommended for anyone in a hurry; the canyon's rock formations are spectacular but one cannot safely observe them while driving. In the end, my journey down Route 67 took at least an hour longer than expected!
