Mount Blue Sky: Summiting the Rockies

Mount Blue Sky, formerly known as Mount Evans, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. The scenic byway, reaching an altitude of 14,130 feet, is the highest paved road in North America, providing easy access to a stunning alpine environment. The journey to the summit is a visual feast, with dramatic elevation gains showcasing diverse ecosystems. Starting in Idaho Springs, the byway climbs over 7,000 feet in 28 miles, revealing panoramic views of the Continental Divide, alpine lakes, and glacier valleys. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and a variety of bird species. The slopes are also home to ancient Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth. At the summit, explore the ruins of the Crest House, a former restaurant and souvenir shop that burned down in 1979, and the High Altitude Lab, a historic research facility. Take a short walk to the true summit for even more expansive views of the Front Range and surrounding peaks. In September 2023, Mount Evans was officially renamed Mount Blue Sky to honor the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. The Arapaho are known as the Blue Sky People, and the Cheyenne have an annual renewal-of-life ceremony called Blue Sky. This renaming marks a step towards acknowledging the history and culture of the Indigenous communities who have long called this area home. Note that Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is undergoing road improvements and is expected to reopen by Memorial Day weekend 2026.