South Platte River Trail in Colorado

South Platte River Trail

This may be Colorados shortest scenic byway, but what it lacks in miles it makes up for in captivating attractions.

Guide Sections

Use South Platte River Trail's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.

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South Platte River Trail Details

Difficulty

Low

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This may be Colorado’s shortest scenic byway, but what it lacks in miles it makes up for in captivating attractions. Right off the bat, this 19-mile journey crosses the historic Old Fort Sedgwick military post, which was used to fend off encroaching Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Sioux warriors. Hundreds of lives on both sides were lost during the attack. From there, it winds along the South Platte River and along the Transcontinental Railroad and the Lincoln Highway (the first cross-country road in the country). Finally, you will get to see the famous Pony Express station where the legendary Buffalo Bill himself first signed up to work as a rider.