For
westbound travelers, Empire is the last major community
before Route 40 crosses the continental divide at Berthoud
Pass. The mountain valleys between Denver and the pass
are some of the most scenic landscapes along the entire
3,220 mile route.
The Route 40 sign shown in this photo
is of note. It was one of the few remaining "cut
out" signs. In those signs, the signs were cut
to the shape of the shield. Around the 1960's, highway
departments began replacing the cut out signs with square
and rectangular signs with the shape of the shield painted
on. In some locations, such as California, cut out signs
remain.
This sign was a few miles west of Empire,
but sad to say, someone took it down. Perhaps it was
a highway crew, but most likely it was a sign collector.
Shame on you!
Between
Empire, Colorado and Silver Creek Junction, Utah, Route
40 traverses the Rockies solo, that is without an accompanying
Interstate Highway. Just about every town along the
way makes for an interesting visit. There are fewer
chain motels and restaurants. Independents abound, catering
to travelers who elect to take this out-of-the-way highway.
In many ways, traveling this stretch highway is like
taking a trip back in time. Of note in Empire
is the Hard Rock Cafe, which predates the famous rock
and roll chain.
