This 48-mile Drive Through a National Park Is the Highest Continuous Paved Road in North America-and Fall Is the Perfect Time to Experience It

"There are many iconic drives in Colorado, but there's only one that's the highest continuous paved road in North America: Trail Ridge Road. This unbelievable 48-mile stretch takes you from Estes Park through Rocky Mountain National Park and on to Grand Lake. The journey begins with winding roads surrounded by evergreen and aspen trees. In the fall, the mountainsides glow with golden leaves, making the lower portions of the drive especially magical."

"As the road climbs, you gradually leave behind the dense forests and cruise above the tree line for about 11 miles. At its highest point, the road reaches 12,183 feet in elevation, and with sweeping views of the Rockies in every direction, it feels like you're on top of the world. The transition is dramatic. Above the tree line, the landscape changes completely with alpine tundra, jagged peaks jutting out in the distance, and skies that seem impossibly close."

"At such extreme elevations, the thin air can take a toll. Altitude sickness is a possibility for some travelers, so it's best to take your time, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Patterson added, "Reaching higher elevations can literally and figuratively take your breath away. When getting out at overlooks along the road, remember to move slowly as the thin air may leave you feeling dizzy.""

Trail Ridge Road is a 48-mile paved route connecting Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Grand Lake. The drive begins amid winding roads lined with evergreens and aspen, with lower slopes glowing golden in fall. The road climbs above the tree line for about 11 miles, reaching a maximum elevation of 12,183 feet and offering sweeping Rocky Mountain views. Above the tree line the landscape becomes alpine tundra with jagged peaks and close skies. The thin air can cause altitude sickness, so move slowly, stay hydrated, and use designated pullouts and trails. Expect gusty winds and temperatures up to 20 degrees colder; bring a warm jacket.

Read at Travel + Leisure