This route connects Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Denver, Colorado, primarily via Interstate 25. The journey offers travelers a scenic experience through the southwestern United States, passing through diverse landscapes ranging from high desert to mountain terrain. Typically, the trip covers approximately 650 miles and requires about 10-12 hours of driving time, excluding stops.
This interstate connection facilitates commerce and tourism between the two states. It provides a crucial transportation artery for both personal and commercial vehicles, linking major cities and smaller communities along the way. Historically, this route has mirrored earlier trails and roads, evolving from pathways used by Indigenous peoples to the modern interstate highway system. Its development significantly impacted regional growth and accessibility.