Much more than fuel at these stops along the I-25 corridor

By Kaelyn Diep

Stopping at a gas station to refuel your car and take a break can either be exhilarating or the same ol’ same ol’. Because Colorado is a central hub for truck drivers, tourists and nearly 6 million residents, gas stations are essential.

But certain well-oiled gas stations and truck stops help make travelers’ stops worthwhile. Features such as fresh food, showers, mechanical services and more can be found. Being the largest gas station in all of Colorado, Buc-ee’s is a good example of bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to the journey.

Buc-ee’s Travel Center opened last year in Johnstown at I-25 and County Road 48. Here, Buc-ee’s has a wide variety of freshly prepared food, trinkets and souvenirs for the whole family. From brisket sandwiches to banana pudding and beef jerky, the destination offers much more than just 116 fuel pumps and a car wash. Everyone who visits can find a bang for their buck. Since the original Texas location was established in 1982, the business has been “committed to providing a clean, friendly, and in-stock experience” for their customers. The location also has EV chargers.

Although Buc-ee’s made a huge splash when it opened in March 2024, here is some fuel for thought on additional family-friendly stops to check out on your next road trip from north to south along I-25:

Love’s Travel Stops - Berthoud

Love's Travel Stop is the perfect hub for any vehicle in need of a restock and a refuel. With 11 locations in Colorado, Love’s is a family-owned business that provides truck drivers and motorists with 24-hour care and access to a clean and safe place to purchase gas or grab a shower.

“For RV travelers, Love's has a network of 100 RV stops, providing a range of amenities, including parking, hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and showers,” says media relations specialist Lauren Daniels. “Love’s is also the only travel stop that offers booking, check-in and turning amenities on through your phone. Love’s Fresh Kitchen also offers an array of choices for everyone, like freshly cut fruit, crisp salads, and handcrafted sandwiches and wraps. All these healthy menu options are prepared on-site each day and ready for travelers to grab and go.”

This location also has EV charging stations.

QuikTrip - Firestone

As the name suggests, your trip to this gas station is quick and simple when it comes to grabbing quality food and fuel. QuikTrip is a convenience store and gas retailer that provides a QT Kitchen in each store. Sold here are yummy foods such as fresh pizza, pretzels, wraps and even breakfast items. QuikShakes, Freezonis and smoothies are also available to customers as well as their voluminous fountain that features more than 30 flavors of soda and tea. Other amenities include clean bathrooms, bagged ice, lottery tickets, an ATM and tobacco. “Whatever you need, there is sure to be a QuikTrip just around the corner, open 24 hours,” according to QuikTrip’s website.

Pilot Travel Center - Monument

For those in need of getting clean after a long day of travel, Pilot is one of the truck stops that has five open and accessible showers for public use. In addition, they have several amenities for every type of traveler, including EV chargers, prime parking, Arby’s and Dunkin’ Express, which is open 24 hours. Hot meals, truck services and all other gas station perks await truckers and other visitors. Touted as a designated stop for those on the road, Pilot is focused on creating a comfortable atmosphere, and has been doing so for more than 60 years. The location has two EV charging stations.

Maverik - Colorado Springs

Maverik: Adventure’s First Stop is a Colorado staple in an ever-moving and evolving state. With 26 locations, Maverik is the largest independent fuel marketer in the Intermountain West. “Maverik isn’t just a convenience store, it’s an experience,” says Taylor Eck, director of public relations. “Every store is designed to immerse visitors in the spirit of adventure, featuring vibrant landscape photography of local landmarks, topographic maps, and dynamic content on TVs and fuel pump screens. What makes it truly special is that each location showcases original photography shot in that specific state, giving customers a sense of place and inspiring them to explore the world around them.”

TravelCenters of America - Pueblo, Walsenburg

Mostly known as TA, TravelCenters of America takes pride in being “welcoming, empathetic, having integrity, openness and being a team player” in the petroleum industry. The TA in Walsenburg features A&W All American Food. The Pueblo stop includes the Black Bear Diner offerings, as well as truck services.