Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway: Drive to the Top of the Rockies
Drive the highest paved road in North America! Breathtaking views, alpine scenery, and wildlife await on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway.
The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, formerly known as the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, is a breathtaking journey to the top of the Rockies. This 28-mile paved road climbs over 7,000 feet, reaching a staggering altitude of 14,130 feet near the summit of Mount Blue Sky. As the highest paved road in North America, it offers unparalleled views and a unique alpine experience. The byway begins near Idaho Springs, about an hour west of Denver. As you ascend, you'll pass through five distinct climate zones, witnessing a dramatic change in scenery, from forests to treeless tundra. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and various bird species. Popular stops along the byway include Echo Lake, a picturesque alpine lake with hiking trails and picnic spots. Further up, the Mount Goliath Natural Area showcases ancient bristlecone pines, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth. Summit Lake Park, at 12,840 feet, is the highest city park in the U.S. and offers stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. At the summit, explore the ruins of the Crest House, once the highest business structure in the U.S., and take a short hike to the very top for panoramic views of the Front Range. Note that the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is typically open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, weather permitting. Timed-entry reservations are required to access the byway and must be booked online in advance. Be prepared for volatile weather conditions, including wind, rain, and even snow, any day of the year. Due to ongoing construction, the upper portion of the byway is closed to motorized and non-motorized travel through 2025, with reopening planned for Memorial Day weekend 2026.
Local tips
- Book your timed-entry reservation online in advance, as they are required and often sell out.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
- Bring warm layers, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the altitude can be challenging.
- Take your time and make stops along the way to acclimate to the altitude and enjoy the scenery.
- Be aware that vehicles over 30 feet in length are not recommended due to the narrow, winding road.
A brief summary to Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway
- Evergreen, Colorado, 80439, US
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
To reach the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway from Evergreen, CO, head north on CO-74 N/Evergreen Pkwy towards I-70. Take I-70 west to Exit 240 for CO-103 toward Idaho Springs/Mt. Blue Sky. Follow CO-103 south for approximately 14 miles to Echo Lake. At Echo Lake, turn onto Highway 5 to ascend to the summit. Note that during the 2025 construction closure, access to the summit is only available via hiking trails. During the open season, a timed-entry reservation is required to access the byway, costing $15 per vehicle, plus a $2 reservation fee. These must be purchased online in advance. Parking is included with your reservation. There are no additional tolls on this route.
