Colorado’s Old Fall River Road
Old Fall River Road in Colorado is a historic, one-way mountain route that climbs through the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a truly immersive alpine experience. Unlike the more developed Trail Ridge Road, Old Fall River is narrow, unpaved, and winds through steep switchbacks, dense forests, and high-altitude tundra. When three friends and I set out to explore this legendary road in our vehicles, we knew we were in for something special—but the journey exceeded even our highest expectations. As we climbed above the tree line, the scenery shifted dramatically, opening up to sweeping views of alpine valleys and jagged peaks.
The road eventually delivered us to the Alpine Visitor Center, perched at over 12,000 feet above sea level. The sense of accomplishment—and altitude—was real. Up there, the air is thinner, the views are endless, and the feeling of being on top of the world is undeniable. Along the way, we paused for photos, took in cascading waterfalls, and marveled at the raw, untouched beauty of the Rockies. It’s not a technical drive, but it demands patience, attention, and a deep appreciation for the landscape surrounding you. Sharing it with close friends made the adventure all the more memorable.
What made this particular trip even more exciting was the chance to document the entire journey on video, thanks to recently loosened regulations regarding video recording in Rocky Mountain National Park. With clearer guidelines and more flexible rules for non-commercial filming, we were able to capture the spirit of the road—its curves, elevation gains, and dramatic views—without violating park policies. It allowed us to preserve the experience and share it with others, showcasing not only the incredible drive but also the value of public lands and responsible exploration.
Check out these videos of our amazing trip out west and into the Rockies: