AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Trail of the Ancients

Colorado · Utah · New Mexico
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Valley of the Gods · Public Domain. Photo courtesy of Utah's Canyon Country Visitor Services · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

Explore the long and intriguing occupation of the Four Corners region by Native American peoples. Travel through the archaeological heartland of America while crossing the beautiful and diverse landscapes of the Colorado Plateau. World-renowned Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley Tribal Park, and Four Corners Monument are highlights on the trail.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
Jutting into the clear blue sky, a clump of mountains rises from the daunting desert landscape.
Valley of the Gods
Public Domain. Photo courtesy of Utah's Canyon Country Visitor Services · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.