The Canon City, Westcliff, Florence Loop

Motorcycle Roads & Rides > Routes > United States > Colorado

Average Rating - This road has been rated by 0 visitors

State: Colorado
Date Submitted: September 8, 2011
Submitted by: Minotaur
Motorcycle Road Length: 96 Miles

Written Directions

Starting from Canon City, west of Pueblo on US Hwy 50, go west 1 mile to Skyline Drive, a 3 mile thriller, a 1 lane road too narrow for RV's & trucks. Rejoin Hwy 50 in Canon City and continue on west past the Royal Gorge to Texas Creek. Turn left on Colorado Hwy 69 to Westcliffe-Sliver Cliff, then turn left onto Hwy 96. This road climbs steadily until reaching Hwy 67 that takes you into Florence. Take either 67 thru Florence or Hwy 115 NW, both connect with US Hwy 50 back into Canon City

Scenery

On Hwy 69 out of Texas Creek,gorgeous views of the Sangre de CRisto Range and broad green valleys. You will be climbing to 9090 ft elevation and may be in the clouds so bring warm clothing. Watch for the big horn sheep grazing on rocks above you when you first connect with Hwy 67. Be sure to read the "Hardscrabble" signs on your left near Wetmore to learn the early settler's histories in mining silver and gold. Hwy 115 at Florence takes you by the Federal Super-Max prison where the baddest of the baddest are housed.

Road Quality

Lots of sweepers, road is well-paved and wide enough to pass the slow-movers except at the higher elevations. Shoulders are adequate but pull-outs are scarce.

Roadside Amenities

Royal Gorge area has plenty of food stops and shops.
Texas Creek has a small store. Lots of little shops and eateries at Westcliff-Silver Cliff which is with tourist shops with knick-nacks as well as eateries. One warning, gas is scarce except at Canon City and Florence

Additional Info

This was an exciting, fun ride and is suitable for many different types of rider and bikes. Hwy 165 is marked as scenic to Colorado City and goes by Bishop Castle, and Hwy 67 south of Westcliffe-Silver Cliff looks like the scenery would be great as well.

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