Frying Pan Road is an awe-inspiring route through White River NF

Okay, road trip lovers, buckle up for the Frying Pan Road in Colorado! This scenic beauty, also known as CR 104, stretches for about 42 miles between Basalt (a seriously charming town!) and the junction with Hagerman Pass and Ivanhoe Lake Roads.

Located west of Denver, this route winds through Pitkin and Eagle counties, always sitting pretty at over 6,500 feet above sea level! Get ready to hug the curves as you follow the Fryingpan River right up to Ruedi Reservoir. Trust me, the views near the reservoir's shoreline are *chef's kiss*. And if you're feeling adventurous, keep going past the reservoir for a truly secluded, remote experience!

Most of the road (around 32 miles) is paved as it snakes through the valley. But hold on—the last 11 miles are gravel! It's an old railroad grade, so it's usually in decent shape, but you *might* want to bring a 4x4 just in case, especially if conditions are rough.

Expect twists, turns, and some sections that practically kiss the red rock canyon walls! While it's well-maintained and usually has two lanes, keep an eye out for blind curves, hills, and gravel in some of those corners. You'll find plenty of well-marked 25-35 mph corners on good asphalt, especially as the road climbs and hugs the lake's shoreline. The pavement is generally good until you go past the reservoir.

Set high in the White River National Forest, the road peaks at a lofty 10,708 feet above sea level near the end. Heads up—it's closed during the winter months. Snow can create hazardous driving conditions any time of year.