The Ultimate Road Trip: Central City, Colorado to DeSoto, Texas

Are you ready for an adventure-filled road trip? Imagine driving through breathtaking mountain ranges, vibrant cities, and rolling hills, crossing several state lines, all the way from Central City, Colorado to DeSoto, Texas.

Whether you prefer to take the scenic or the fastest route, here are some travel options that will make this journey memorable:

Route 1: The I-25 S and I-40 E Route

This 932-mile drive is the fastest route with an estimated drive time of 15 hours. Starting in Central City, take I-70 E towards Denver, then merge onto I-25 S towards Albuquerque. Continue on I-40 E until you arrive in DeSoto.

Along the way, there are several pit stops worth visiting. Don’t miss Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the Route 66 Museum in Albuquerque, or the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo.

Route 2: The I-25 S and US-287 S Route

If you want to take a more scenic route, this is the way to go. This 1,094-mile drive takes roughly 18 hours, but the picturesque scenery along the way is worth it. From Central City, take I-70 E towards Denver and merge onto I-25 S. In Colorado Springs, take a detour and join US-285 S, which will take you through the stunning landscapes of New Mexico and Texas. In Fort Worth, merge onto I-35 and continue south until you reach DeSoto.

If you have some extra time to spare, visit the Taos Pueblo in New Mexico or explore the Palo Duro Canyon in Texas.

Route 3: The Scenic Route through the Rockies

If you want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Colorado, this is the route for you. This13-hour drive covers a distance of 826 miles. Head south out of Central City on CO-119 S, then take CO-72 W towards the Rocky Mountains. Wind your way through the mountains on CO-7 and CO-72, then join US-40 E towards Denver. Continue on I-25 S until you reach Colorado Springs, then follow the same route as Route 1, taking I-40 E until you reach DeSoto.

Make sure to stop at Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, and the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Route 4: The West Texas Route

If you’re looking to experience the vastness of West Texas, this is the route for you. This 880-mile drive takes roughly 13 hours. From Central City, take I-70 E until you reach Limon, then follow US-287 S towards Amarillo. Join I-27 S until you reach Lubbock, then take US-84 E towards Abilene. Follow I-20 E until you reach DeSoto.

Make a pit stop at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Big Texan Steak Ranch, and the Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock.

No matter which route you choose, this drive is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won't forget. The scenery is breathtaking, the pit stops are fascinating, and the roads are smooth. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your ultimate road trip from Central City, Colorado to DeSoto, Texas!