Lots of people come to Colorado for the beer, so we figured what better way to explore the great state of Colorado than via breweries?
Get ready, folks. This is the ultimate Colorado brewery road trip!
(For the purposes of this article, humor us and pretend we're going on this brewery road trip together! We'll drive, you just sit back and relax and enjoy your beer.)
Steamworks Brewing Company
We begin the road trip at Steamworks in Durango. Steamworks has something for everyone, with a popular Kolsch and an even more popular lager, plus a selection of one-offs and seasonals. Once you've had your fill, fire up the car and head north.
Red Mountain Brewing
I do not know very much about this particular brewery, but it is located in Ouray, which is important for logistic purposes. Besides, any excuse to go to Ouray, home to some of the most strikingly beautiful views in Colorado, should be followed up on immediately. Don't look down driving over Red Mountain Pass, though. After this, continue north.
Palisade Brewing Company
I know what you're saying: "going to Palisade for beer and not wine? That's crazy!" It is not crazy. Honestly, it's worth the trip just to stare at their logo designs. Don't stare too long, though, because it's time to head east.
Glenwood Canyon Brewpub
Home to several award-winning beers (the St. James Red is a particular favorite), the Glenwood Canyon Brewpub's barrel project means it always has something interesting on tap. After you're tapped out, continue east.
Dillon Dam Brewery
Worth the visit to Dillon for the name alone, the Dillon Dam Brewery is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the fact that you are not currently driving on I-70. You have to get back on soon, but only for a little bit, because you're getting off the beaten path and heading south.
South Park Brewing
Welcome to Fairplay, the town the show South Park is based on. South Park's beers are solid if unspectacular, which is fine because you've got more breweries to visit. Onward!
Mad Ant
This brewery is located in Bailey. I have driven by many times and have always been curious how it is. I've never been in, though. (Let me know how it goes!) Check out the Bigfoot Museum next door, which is sure to be wildly entertaining if you've had a few. Don't linger too long, though, because you're off to the bright lights of the big city!
Epic Brewing
Honestly, I just picked a Denver brewery at random. Go wherever you want, they're all fine.
Stein Brewing Company (formerly J. Wells)
What's a Colorado brewery road trip without a stop in Boulder? Stein Brewing Company is located in a garage in east Boulder. I haven't been in since the business changed hands, so I'm not sure as to the quality of the beer anymore, but it is located near several competent mechanics, and we want to keep this road trip running smoothly. Knock back a pint or two while you're getting the oil changed! Once the car has been serviced, you're back on the road heading north to Fort Collins.
Odell Brewing
We finish our road trip at Odell Brewing, which makes 90 Schilling, one of the best beers in existence. I would drink 90 Schilling all day, every day if it weren't for health risks, societal norms, cash flow issues, and several other factors.
And you're done. You've made it through the ultimate Colorado brewery road trip! Now, you've had a lot of beer, so go exercise or something.
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