Silver Thread Scenic Byway

Creede boomed in 1890, growing some days 300 people a day. Abandoned when the silver prices dropped in 1893, the next years brought major floods and fires. The winters of this area were harsh, and in 1848 John C. Fremont lost 1/3 of his men. In the winter of 1873, Alfred Packer was the sole survivor to return from his exploration of the mountains, supposedly eating his companions. Between silver and cannibalism, the region of the Silver Thread Byway is rich in history. Start traveling in South Fork, and pass through Creede and Gunnison to end your journey in Lake City, totaling 75 miles. Give 2 hours to drive the entire byway.

Beauty surrounds the region. The San Juan Mountains are visible from the byway, and the Wheeler Geologic National Area provides views of exquisite land formations. Be sure you have a 4 wheel drive vehicle to travel to the Wheeler Area and be prepared to hike a few miles where the road ends. Also in the area is Coller State Wildlife Area. Here, Elk gather before migrating. Between 700-1,000 Elk have been spotted here at one time. Don't miss the North Creek Clear Waterfalls, known for being the most photographed site, or Spring Creek Pass, home of the Great Continental Divide.

The Wagon Wheel Gap is a site rich in history. Built in 1870, this was the first Stage Stop between South Fork and Lake City. However, the Ute Indians used the area long before for what they called "Little Medicine," or hot mineral waters. Today, these hot springs are resorts and privately owned.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do. Between two wilderness areas and numerous fourteeners, camping, fishing, hiking, rafting, and biking are popular activities. The winter months provide ice fishing in the reservoirs, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling on mapped and maintained trails.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

Allington Inn & Suites of South Fork
A family owned and managed property, snuggled in the arms of the Rio Grande National Forest in South Fork. Family and Jacuzzi suites. Pets welcome. Ideal for family reunions and mountain weddings.

Arbor House Inn on the River
Near South Fork this elegantly appointed inn, in a beautiful riverside setting has five themed guest rooms, including a honeymoon suite with a jetted whirlpool tub. Romance and other packages available.

Blue Creek Lodge, Cabins, RV Park & Camp
Halfway between South Fork and Creede at Wagon Wheel Gap. Vacationer's paradise for fishermen, hunters, skiers, hikers, photographers. Hosted by the Philbern family since 1976. Best HOME cooking.

Cottonwood Cove Lodge, Cabins, RV Park, Jeeps, Horse Rides & Rafting
1, 2 & 3 bedroom cabins with kitchens & fireplaces plus RV sites all on the Silver Thread Scenic Byway (Highway 149) between Creede and South Fork in Wagon Wheel Gap. Dogs Welcome!

Crested Butte-Gunnison is Colorado Pure & Simple. . .
Friendly mountain communities package nature with Western heritage and Victorian mining towns. Boat, fish, camp, kayak, raft, hike, bike, rock climb, snowmobile, Nordic ski, snowshoe, star gaze & jeep tour.

G & M Cabins
Fully equipped cabins with kitchens in Lake City. Walk to shops and restaurants. Drive historic Alpine Loop Scenic Byway and visit ghost towns "on top of the world." Outdoor activities are boundless.

Hard Tack Mine Tours & Museum
Lake City's only underground gift shop, museum & mine tour. Our guided tour takes you back 100 years. See how miners lived and experience the bygone age of hard rock mining. Try your luck at gold panning.

Lakeview Cabins, Condos & Vacation Homes
We have vacation rentals of all kinds -- cabins, condos, and vacation homes! Some on Lake San Cristobal, Colorado's 2nd largest natural lake, but we also have secluded and river properties.

Pleasant View Resort & Rocky Mountain Jeep Rentals
Waiting for your adventure-a QUIET destination high in the San Juan Mountains. Modern & fully equipped cabins at the south end of Lake City. Rent NEW jeeps on-site for scenic drives. FREE Wi-Fi.

RC Guest Ranch & Circle Divide Outfitters
Family owned Ranch near Creede, offering true western hospitality in a magnificent setting. Comfortably furnished one to three bedroom cabins. Guided fishing and hunting trips plus horseback riding!

Woodlake Park Campground & Cabins
2-1/2 miles south of Lake City on Silver Thread Scenic Byway, near Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. Big uncrowded pull-thru full hookups. Tenters A-OK. 4 Cabins, a Vacation Home & an apartment. Pavilion.

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