Colorado 131 begins at Interstate 70 in Wolcott, then travels north through a variety of small towns until ending at U.S. 40 south of Steamboat Springs, distance of about 70 miles. This is the most direct route from Interstate 70 to Steamboat Springs.
Colorado 131 North
Colorado 131 begins at a diamond interchange from Interstate 70 (Exit 157) in Wolcott. The route travels north for a very short distance, then connects with U.S. 6. At U.S. 6, Colorado 133 turns west briefly, then turns north again to cross the Eagle River and resume its northerly course toward Steamboat Springs. Photo taken 08/27/04.
The connection between Interstate 70 and Colorado 131 is afforded via a brief segment of westbound U.S. 6 near Wolcott, until reaching the narrow bridge that carries Colorado 131 over the Eagle River. Here, U.S. 6 and Colorado 131 travel west together briefly. Photo taken 08/27/04.
Westbound U.S. 6 reaches the intersection with northbound Colorado 131. Use Colorado 131 north to State Bridge, Yampa, Phippsburg, and Oak Creek. At the northern end, Colorado 131 connects to U.S. 40 west to Steamboat Springs. Photo taken 08/27/04.
The narrow bridge is indeed narrow: it can only accommodate one direction at a time due to its narrow width. Vehicles must yield to other vehicles already on the bridge. The bridge appears to be very old and is in need of replacement. It has a slight arch to it. Photo taken 08/27/04.
This mileage sign provides the distance to Bond (17 miles), McCoy (21 miles), and Steamboat Springs (74 miles). Photo taken 08/27/04.
After the narrow eagle River bridge, a second Colorado 131 reassurance marker is placed, this time without the directional banner. Colorado 131 immediately begins to ascend out of the Eagle River valley and cross some mountains that separate the Eagle River from the Colorado River. Photo taken 08/27/04.
After ascending out of the Eagle River valley, Colorado 131 takes on a new character, following a relatively straight route through some beautiful canyons and vista points. Photo taken 08/27/04.
Colorado 131 continues north, offering compelling views of the surrounding mountains between Wolcott and State Bridge. Photos taken 08/27/04.
Just prior to reaching State Bridge and the intersection with Trough Road, northbound Colorado 131 crosses the Colorado River. Photo taken 08/27/04.
Northbound Colorado 131 reaches Trough Road, which follows the Colorado River and the railroad east toward Kremmling and a junction with U.S. 40 and Colorado 9. Trough Road is not a state highway, but it is designated as County Route 1 in Grand County. It is not signed with a numerical designation in Eagle County. Colorado 131, meanwhile, continues north toward Steamboat Springs. Photo taken 08/27/04.
