Built between 1913 and 1920, a drive up Old Fall River Road is an incredible 9.4-mile scenic drive. This unpaved road begins next to Endovalley Picnic Area and ends at the summit of Fall River Pass and in the parking area for Alpine Visitor Center. At Alpine Visitor Center, use Trail Ridge Road to return to the east side of RMNP.

Enjoy a Scenic Drive on Old Fall River Road

Old Fall River Road is a seasonal road. It is open to vehicles from early July to mid-October. Old Fall River Road is currently closed to vehicles for the season.

Built between 1913 and 1920, a drive up Old Fall River Road is an incredible 9.4-mile scenic drive. This unpaved road begins next to Endovalley Picnic Area and follows the steep slope of Mount Chapin's south face. The road ends at the summit of Fall River Pass and the parking area for the Alpine Visitor Center at an elevation of 11,796 feet.

Due to the narrow and steep nature of this road with sharp switch backs, travel on Old Fall River Road is uphill, one-way.

What to Expect When Driving on the Road?

Old Fall River Road is a narrow, dirt road. Experience an incredible 9-mile scenic drive on Old Fall River Road, beginning at the Endovalley Picnic Area and ending at the summit of Fall River Pass and the parking area for the Alpine Visitor Center at an elevation of 11,796 feet.

Take in stunning views of Mount Chapin and Chasm Falls as you climb through the sub-alpine and into the alpine life zones. Old Fall River Road was built over 7 years, beginning in July 1913 and dedicated on September 14, 1920.

Be Prepared

• While safe to drive for most passenger vehicles, Old Fall River Road has a dirt surface and is winding and narrow.

• Beginning at the Endovalley Picnic Area, Old Fall River Road is a one-way uphill road only. Old Fall River Road connects with Trail Ridge Road at the Alpine Visitor Center. 

• Drivers have an opportunity to take a short hike to Chasm Falls from a pullout.

• Keep an eye out for wildlife. Elk, mule deer, yellow-bellied marmots and pikas could all be seen on or near the road.

• This road is very narrow and steep, with sharp turns. A some points, the grade is as steep as 16%. Vehicles longer than 25 feet in length and vehicles with trailers are prohibited.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife, bicycles and pedestrians.
• The speedlimit is 15 mph - Use a lower gear to help save your breaks.
• Be prepared for cooler temperatures as you go up in elevation. Afternoon thunderstorms and lightning are common in July and August.
• Drivers with fears of heights and/or steep drops may be advised to avoid this road.