The Dolores River, pictured here as it flows through the edges of the Uncompahgre Plateau, follows the western border of Colorado. As it begins to follow Route 141, one of the more dramatic sections of the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway, the Dolores is fed by a half dozen streams that plunge down from the plateau. Once the Dolores rips through the Paradox Canyon, the river slows through the town of Gateway and crosses the border of Utah were it joins the Colorado River.
     Gateway was named for its close proximity of Colorado’s border with Utah, but may also allude to a gateway to the area’s rugged beauty. The Unaweep-Tabeguache Byway follows legendary wagon routes used to haul radium ore. Nine Mile Hill challenged the best mule teams with its 18 percent grades. This backcountry route, following routes 141 and 145, introduces sightseers to the Unaweep Divide where waters head east to the Gunnison River and west to the Dolores River. To the south, the byway passes Wright Mesa and drops down to the free flowing San Miguel, one of the few remaining unchecked rivers in the West. The historic Driggs Mansion (circa 1914), the Hanging Flume, and coke ovens offer some of the historic points of interest on the byway. Gateway Colorado Automobile Museum presents the marvels of automotive history, and a collection of over 40 cars. The Grand Valley Overlook at Gateway and the stunning views of Unaweep Canyon from Taylor Granite Quarry shouldn’t be missed.
     Although the byway is almost 130 miles, it may take much more time to see all the sights from Whitewater in the north, to Telluride in the south.