Overall Route Rating
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4.95 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.95
21 Reviews

Motorcycle Route Author

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By MCR Contributor (1039 McR Points) on May 17, 2011

Rider Reviews

GJRonK
2629 McR Points
November 28, 2012
This is an amazingly beautiful route. The first…
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COHDrider
2 McR Points
February 23, 2012
This route is BEAUTIFUL and well worth any detour…
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Written Directions

Starting in Whitewater about 10 miles south of Grand Junction through Hwy 50, follow CO 141 for 104 miles to Naturita. In Naturita take CO 145 for 36 miles to Placerville.

Scenery

Breathtaking vistas and a sky so blue that looks surreal in contrast with the red rocks. The traffic seems to be very light. Make you feel you are riding inside a miniature Grand Canyon. There's a section of the road where the turns and the canyon gets very tight with just enough room for the road and the river.

Red rock canyons along the Dolores river. Makes you feel like the road runner in some stretches.

Drive Enjoyment

Decent road, almost perfect surface with a few bumpy spots. Lots of high speed sweepers. Visibility can be limited in some areas and narrow shoulders call for extra care. The road crosses through open range country so lookout for cattle on the road.

Tourism Opportunities

Nice resort at Gateway which is about a third into the ride. There you can find a nice restaurant and a convenience store with some take out items. The resort also have high end accommodations and even an Auto museum worth visiting. Nothing else for over 60 miles until you reach Naturita. Make sure you have a full tank of gas before you start. Bring extra water, this is high desert country. No cell phone service through most of the route so a breakdown can result in a very long wait for help. Make sure you carry a good roadside emergency kit.
 

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Marshman
July 15, 2018
28 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring
Did this route today with my brother from North to South. Simply unbelievable. Was my second time after a 7 year gap and it's more mature and beautiful than I remember. Just do it.
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G550PLT
June 10, 2021
10 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring
Really fun ride with no traffic at all. Amazing views and I would say as beautiful as Sedona in many ways. Make sure to bring water. Many areas with no cell reception, feels like you are completely alone with the bike and road. Exactly what I love!
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Nardo Polo
August 31, 2021
7 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
It wasn't our planed ride, but I am sure glad that we ended up on this route. It was a great ride and lots to see.
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1 riders found this road review useful