Ascend to New Heights on Mount Blue Sky Scenic Drive
Drive to the top of the world on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, offering unparalleled views and alpine adventures in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Experience the thrill of driving to the top of a 14er on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America, offering breathtaking views and alpine adventures. This 28-mile journey climbs over 7,000 feet, showcasing Colorado's stunning natural beauty.
A brief summary to Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive
- Mount Blue Sky Rd, Evergreen, Colorado, 80439, US
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at high altitudes.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited services along the byway.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat, as the sun is intense at high altitude.
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures at the summit, even in summer.
- Give ascending vehicles the right-of-way on switchbacks.
Getting There
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Driving
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 240 for Idaho Springs. Follow CO Highway 103 south for 14 miles to Echo Lake. Turn onto Highway 5 (Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway). Continue for 14 miles to the summit. Note that timed-entry reservations are required to access the byway. As of July 2025, the byway is closed for construction and will reopen in 2026. During the closure, access to the summit is only available via hiking trails. Expect to pay $15 per vehicle.
Discover more about Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chief Mountain
6.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Chief Mountain, a stunning peak in the heart of Colorado's majestic Rockies.
Mestaa’Ėhehe Mountain fire lookout
9.2 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history at Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout in the heart of Colorado.
Colorado Central Mill
9.5 km
Discover the rich mining history of Colorado at the Colorado Central Mill, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District
11.2 km
Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Veterans Memorial Tunnels
14.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Veterans Memorial Tunnels in Idaho Springs, Colorado, a tribute to veterans and an engineering marvel amidst stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.
A & A Historical Horseback Riding
14.8 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!
Century Casino & Hotel Central City
17.6 km
Discover the excitement of gaming and the comfort of hospitality at Century Casino & Hotel Central City, a top destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
The Gilpin Casino
18.4 km
Experience the thrill of gaming and entertainment at The Gilpin Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado, a premier destination for tourists seeking excitement.
Ameristar Black Hawk
18.5 km
Discover the excitement and luxury of Ameristar Black Hawk, Colorado's premier casino destination, offering gaming, dining, and breathtaking mountain views.
Horseshoe Black Hawk
18.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Horseshoe Black Hawk, your gateway to Colorado's stunning landscapes and rich history.
St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
19.5 km
Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
25.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Golden Gate Canyon State Park, a Colorado gem featuring trails, wildlife, and breathtaking views.
Genesee Park
25.7 km
Discover the diverse wildlife, scenic views, and outdoor adventures awaiting you at Genesee Park near Golden, Colorado.
Lair o’ the Bear Park
28.9 km
Explore Lair o' the Bear Park in Idledale, Colorado - a serene escape with scenic trails, picnic spots, and abundant wildlife, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Brandy Duvall memorial cross
29.8 km
Explore the serene Brandy Duvall Memorial Cross in Golden, CO, a poignant tribute surrounded by natural beauty and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Echo Lake Park
0.6 km
Discover stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and a peaceful alpine lake at the base of Mount Blue Sky, near Evergreen, Colorado.
Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center
1.4 km
Explore ancient bristlecone pines and alpine beauty at Mount Goliath Natural Area, a unique high-altitude destination near Evergreen, Colorado.
Summit Lake Park
7.4 km
Discover breathtaking alpine scenery and rare tundra at Summit Lake Park, the highest city park in North America, along Colorado's Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway.
Mount Blue Sky
8.5 km
Drive to the top of the world on the highest paved road in North America, with breathtaking views and rich history at every turn.
Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway
8.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, where Colorado's natural wonders come alive with stunning vistas and vibrant wildlife.
Georgetown Energy Museum
10.2 km
Explore the history of hydroelectric power in a still-functioning 1900 plant. Discover Georgetown's energy past and its impact on local mining.
Mount Bierstadt
10.2 km
Hike Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's most accessible 14,000-foot peaks, offering stunning views and a rewarding challenge for all skill levels.
Mt Bierstadt
10.2 km
Hike Colorado's Mount Bierstadt: A popular and accessible 14,065-foot peak with stunning views, perfect for beginner mountaineers and experienced hikers alike.
Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours
10.2 km
Experience Colorado's gold rush history with a guided tour through an authentic 1860s gold mine in Georgetown.
Hamill House Museum
10.4 km
Explore 19th-century Victorian life in a silver mining magnate's home at the Hamill House Museum in historic Georgetown, Colorado.
Phoenix Gold Mine
10.7 km
Explore a real Colorado gold mine, discover its history, and pan for gold at the Phoenix Gold Mine in Idaho Springs.
Georgetown Loop Railroad
10.8 km
Journey through Colorado's mining history on a vintage train, traversing the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad between Georgetown and Silver Plume.
AVA Cliffside Zipline
11.0 km
Experience high-flying fun for the whole family on six thrilling ziplines with Rocky Mountain views, near Denver in historic Idaho Springs, Colorado.
AVA Rafting & Zipline
11.0 km
Experience Colorado's best outdoor adventures with whitewater rafting, ziplining, and mountaineering at AVA Rafting & Zipline in historic Idaho Springs.
Indian Hot Springs
11.7 km
Discover relaxation and history at this Colorado hot springs resort, just a short trip from Denver in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Essential places to dine
Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant
42.4 km
Discover authentic American cuisine paired with handcrafted spirits at Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant in beautiful Colorado.
Traverse Restaurant & Bar
42.6 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Traverse Restaurant & Bar in Breckenridge.
Soupz On
42.9 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Soupz On in Breckenridge—your ultimate destination for delicious and comforting soups.
Oaxacan bites
43.0 km
Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Oaxacan Bites in Breckenridge - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
43.0 km
Discover Breckenridge's culinary gem at The Canteen Tap House & Tavern - where local flavors meet a vibrant bar scene.
Blue River Bistro
43.0 km
Experience exquisite American-Italian cuisine at Blue River Bistro, nestled in scenic Breckenridge - perfect for any dining occasion.
Tin Plate Pizza
43.1 km
Experience the best pizza in Breckenridge at Tin Plate Pizza - where quality ingredients meet innovative recipes in a cozy atmosphere.
The Carlin Breckenridge
43.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at The Carlin Breckenridge – where every dish is a masterpiece amid stunning mountain views.
Tavern Underground
43.1 km
Discover Tavern Underground: A cozy bar in Breckenridge offering delectable American dishes and unique cocktails in a vibrant setting.
Hearthstone Restaurant
43.1 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Hearthstone Restaurant in Breckenridge – where fine dining meets breathtaking mountain views.
Rootstalk Breckenridge
43.1 km
Experience innovative American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Rootstalk Breckenridge – where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
Salt Creek Steakhouse
43.1 km
Indulge in expertly grilled steaks and savory BBQ at Salt Creek Steakhouse, where every meal is an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience.
Twist
43.1 km
Experience eclectic fine dining at Twist in Breckenridge - where innovative cuisine meets a vibrant bar atmosphere amidst stunning mountain views.
Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon
43.1 km
Experience gourmet dining at Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon in Breckenridge—where prime cuts meet rustic charm amidst stunning mountain views.
Bird and Cow
43.1 km
Discover Bird and Cow in Breckenridge - where gourmet burgers meet innovative American cuisine in a cozy mountain setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine Herb Corner
36.9 km
Explore Sunshine Herb Corner in Fraser, Colorado - your go-to destination for vitamins, supplements, and health foods amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Local Experience
37.0 km
Discover top-notch ski gear and unbeatable service at Fraser's Local Experience, perfect for your Colorado winter adventures.
Safeway
37.1 km
Explore Safeway in Fraser, CO - your go-to grocery store offering fresh produce, local specialties, and quality services for every traveler.
Bottle Pass Liquors
37.2 km
Discover a diverse selection of wines and liquors in Fraser, Colorado at Bottle Pass Liquors – your local destination for fine spirits.
Breckenridge Ski & Sport
42.4 km
Explore the beauty of Breckenridge with top-notch ski and outdoor rental services. Your adventure starts here!
Lace and Lariat
43.1 km
Explore Lace and Lariat in Breckenridge, a charming boutique offering unique fashion and accessories for both men and women amidst stunning mountain views.
A Racer's Edge
43.1 km
Discover A Racer's Edge, Breckenridge's premier sporting goods store for ski gear and outdoor sports equipment, where adventure awaits.
Two Wild Sisters
43.1 km
Explore Two Wild Sisters in Breckenridge, a charming gift shop filled with unique handcrafted jewelry and local art treasures.
Björn's Colorado Honey
43.1 km
Explore Björn's Colorado Honey: A sweet destination in Breckenridge for artisanal honey and local treasures.
Breckenridge Shirts & More
43.1 km
Explore unique apparel and souvenirs at Breckenridge Shirts & More, capturing the charm of Colorado's mountain town.
Towne Square Mall
43.1 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Towne Square Mall in Breckenridge, Colorado, where unique shops and delicious dining await every visitor.
Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet
43.1 km
Explore stylish clothing at Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet in Breckenridge, CO, where mountain charm meets fashion-forward shopping.
Simply Breck
43.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and stylish clothing at Simply Breck, the ultimate shopping destination in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Slope Style Ski + Bike
43.2 km
Discover Breckenridge's ultimate destination for ski and bike rentals, expert repairs, and personalized service for all outdoor enthusiasts.
The Shop On Main Street
43.2 km
Explore the heart of Breckenridge at The Shop On Main Street, where unique clothing and accessories meet the charm of Colorado's mountains.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gravity Haus Winter Park
33.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Randi's Grill & Pub
33.9 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
43.1 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
RMU Breckenridge
43.2 km
Discover RMU Breckenridge - The ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts with live music, bike repairs, and a vibrant bar scene in the heart of Colorado!
Ski Town Chicken Joint
43.2 km
Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.
Prospector
43.2 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
43.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
43.3 km
Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
43.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.
The Absinthe Bar
43.3 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Molly Jacks
43.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
Fireside Lounge
43.3 km
Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Base Nine
44.0 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
44.0 km
Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.
Southern Sun Pub & Brewery
47.0 km
Discover the heart of Boulder at Southern Sun Pub & Brewery, where handcrafted beers and local flavors come together in a lively atmosphere.
