10. Boreas Pass

Boreas Pass is a twisting road built in the 1860s as a route to reach gold mines. Considered one of the most scenic drives through the Rockies, the road is used extensively by workers and vacationers in the ski industry. During the fall season at this higher elevation, the Rocky Mountain maple trees turn rusty red and cottonwood trees are various shades of yellow backdropped by never-changing green pinon pines.

Soon after passing the Red Cliff Bridge, which is actually green, we took a slight detour off Highway 24 on Water Street, a steep road through a beautiful red rock canyon to the small town of Red Cliff, a summer fly-fishing paradise.

A forecast of snow led me and Tipper to the Green Bridge Inn, a riverboat-styled lodge that uses beetle-damaged wood for a unique rustic look on interior walls. The Mango Mountain Grill across the street served amazing mango shrimp tacos and craft beer.