What is the best route from Loveland, CO to Durango when you have a car w/o a lot of power for the mountains?

Question

I like scenery, but need to be realistic with my 2000 Sentra./ 5 speed. Thanks!

Answer 1

I have driven a 2000 Corolla pretty much everywhere in Colorado with no problems. It's about the same power. You won't want to pass people on a 2 lane road uphill, of course. You will have to shift down into 4th for some grades.

The fast way is to go down to Denver, and then take 285 to 160. Depending on your style, that could be one longish day.

I'd make it 2 days and do some serious sightseeing. Down to Denver, out 70 to Grand Junction (very easy day one). Then down 50 and 550 to Durango. Way more scenic, if you don't mind driving mountain roads. 550 (the Million Dollar Highway) is narrow and winding, with some dropoffs. If that's daunting you can turn off 50 at Ridgeway onto 62 to 145, which is substantially wider. Either route is beautiful.

Answer 2

285 to 160. You will have to go over Wolf Creek Pass, but you won't want to go too fast anyway.