Mount Blue Sky: Summit of the Rockies

Drive to the top of the world on the highest paved road in North America, with breathtaking views and rich history at every turn.

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Colorado
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Mount Blue Sky

Ascend to the 14,130-foot summit of Mount Blue Sky, the highest paved road in North America, for panoramic views of the Continental Divide and alpine tundra. This majestic peak, recently renamed to honor the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, offers a unique glimpse into Colorado's natural beauty and rich history.

A brief summary to Mount Blue Sky

Colorado, US

Local tips

Reservations are required to park at Mount Blue Sky, so book in advance at recreation.gov.
Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the weather at the summit can change rapidly.
Be prepared for high-altitude conditions and take it easy if you're not acclimated.
Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile tundra environment.

Getting There

Driving

From I-70, take Exit 240 in Idaho Springs. Follow Highway 103 south for 14 miles until it meets Echo Lake. From Bergen Park, take Highway 103 west to Echo Lake. Note that Highway 5 to the summit is closed to motorized vehicles through 2025. Access to the summit is only available via hiking trails. Reservations are required for vehicle entry to the Mount Blue Sky Recreation Area. Parking fees vary, check recreation.gov for details.

Discover more about Mount Blue Sky

Mount Blue Sky, formerly known as Mount Evans, offers an unparalleled journey to the top of the world. Located approximately 60 miles west of Denver, this majestic peak rises to an altitude of 14,130 feet, boasting the highest paved road in North America. The mountain was renamed in September 2023 to honor the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, recognizing their ancestral connection to the land and replacing a name associated with historical injustice. The Arapaho were known as the Blue Sky People, and the Cheyenne have an annual renewal-of-life ceremony called Blue Sky. The journey to the summit is a breathtaking experience in itself. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway climbs over 7,000 feet in 28 miles, showcasing diverse ecosystems from lush forests to fragile alpine tundra. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and pikas. The byway also offers stunning views of alpine lakes, distant mountain peaks, and ancient bristlecone pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth. At the summit, visitors can explore the ruins of the Crest House and take a short hike to the true summit at 14,265 feet. The Meyer-Womble Observatory, an astronomical observatory operated by the University of Denver, is also located near the summit. From the top, you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Front Range, the Continental Divide, and the vast landscapes stretching towards the Great Plains. Note that the upper portion of the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is closed to motorized and non-motorized traffic through Memorial Day weekend 2026 due to construction. Access to the summit is only available via hiking trails during this period. Reservations are required for vehicle entry to the Mount Blue Sky Recreation Area.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Colorado Central Mill

12.3 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

13.6 km

Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.

Chief Mountain

14.2 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

16.4 km

Experience the stunning views and rich history at Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout in the heart of Colorado.

Veterans Memorial Tunnels

22.6 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

23.2 km

Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!

Alderfer/Three Sisters East Trailhead

25.8 km

Discover Alderfer/Three Sisters East Trailhead, a serene park in Evergreen, Colorado, offering stunning hikes and breathtaking landscapes for all outdoor lovers.

Century Casino & Hotel Central City

26.1 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.

Central City Opera House

26.2 km

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Central City Opera House, a historic venue for stunning opera performances amidst Colorado's scenic mountains.

St Mary's Glacier Trailhead

26.6 km

Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.

The Gilpin Casino

26.9 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

27.0 km

Discover the excitement and luxury of Ameristar Black Hawk, Colorado's premier casino destination, offering gaming, dining, and breathtaking mountain views.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Black Hawk Entrance

27.0 km

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway at the Black Hawk Entrance in Colorado.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Black Hawk Entrance

Horseshoe Black Hawk

27.1 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

27.5 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of St. Mary's Glacier in Colorado, a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and connecting with nature.

Unmissable attractions to see

Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway

0.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, where Colorado's natural wonders come alive with stunning vistas and vibrant wildlife.

Summit Lake Park

1.2 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 Bierstadt

2.2 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

2.2 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.

Guanella Pass

5.8 km

Discover breathtaking views, hiking, and history on this scenic byway connecting Georgetown and Grant in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

7.5 km

Explore ancient bristlecone pines and alpine beauty at Mount Goliath Natural Area, a unique high-altitude destination near Evergreen, Colorado.

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive

8.5 km

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.

Echo Lake Park

8.9 km

Discover stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and a peaceful alpine lake at the base of Mount Blue Sky, near Evergreen, Colorado.

Argentine Pass

12.6 km

Conquer Colorado's highest vehicle-accessible pass for stunning views & a thrilling off-road adventure through historic mining country.

Georgetown Loop Railroad

13.6 km

Journey through Colorado's mining history on a vintage train, traversing the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad between Georgetown and Silver Plume.

Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot

13.7 km

Experience Colorado's mining history on a scenic narrow-gauge railway between Georgetown and Silver Plume. A historic and family-friendly adventure awaits!

Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot

Hamill House Museum

13.8 km

Explore 19th-century Victorian life in a silver mining magnate's home at the Hamill House Museum in historic Georgetown, Colorado.

Georgetown Energy Museum

13.8 km

Explore the history of hydroelectric power in a still-functioning 1900 plant. Discover Georgetown's energy past and its impact on local mining.

Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours

14.1 km

Experience Colorado's gold rush history with a guided tour through an authentic 1860s gold mine in Georgetown.

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

14.5 km

Hike two iconic 14ers in one day, experiencing breathtaking alpine views from the Grays and Torreys Peaks near Silver Plume, Colorado.

Experience innovative American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Rootstalk Breckenridge – where local flavors meet culinary artistry.

Aurum Food & Wine Breckenridge

36.4 km

Discover exceptional American cuisine and fine wines at Aurum Food & Wine Breckenridge - where mountain views meet culinary excellence.

Discover unique T-shirts and souvenirs that celebrate the spirit of Breckenridge at Shirt Off My Back, your go-to shopping destination in Colorado.

Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.

Gravity Haus Winter Park

38.7 km

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.

Randi's Grill & Pub

39.2 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.

The Squeeze

54.9 km

Discover a vibrant bar experience at The Squeeze in Denver, where craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Mount Blue Sky with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Mount Blue Sky: Summit of the Rockies

A brief summary to Mount Blue Sky

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Unlock the Best of Mount Blue Sky

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Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Mount Blue Sky

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Colorado Central Mill

Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District

Chief Mountain

Mestaa’Ėhehe Mountain fire lookout

Veterans Memorial Tunnels

A & A Historical Horseback Riding

Alderfer/Three Sisters East Trailhead

Century Casino & Hotel Central City

Central City Opera House

St Mary's Glacier Trailhead

The Gilpin Casino

Ameristar Black Hawk

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Black Hawk Entrance

Horseshoe Black Hawk

St Mary's Glacier

Unmissable attractions to see

Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway

Summit Lake Park

Mount Bierstadt

Mt Bierstadt

Guanella Pass

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive

Echo Lake Park

Argentine Pass

Georgetown Loop Railroad

Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot

Hamill House Museum

Georgetown Energy Museum

Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

Essential places to dine

Traverse Restaurant & Bar

Soupz On

Oaxacan bites

Tin Plate Pizza

The Canteen Tap House and Tavern

Hearthstone Restaurant

Twist

Blue River Bistro

Salt Creek Steakhouse

The Carlin Breckenridge

Tavern Underground

Bird and Cow

Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon

Rootstalk Breckenridge

Aurum Food & Wine Breckenridge

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Breckenridge Ski & Sport

A Racer's Edge

Lace and Lariat

Two Wild Sisters

Breckenridge Shirts & More

Björn's Colorado Honey

Towne Square Mall

Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet

Slope Style Ski + Bike

The Shop On Main Street

Simply Breck

Mountain Tees

Arabella Adventures

Cabin Fever

Shirt Off My Back

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Napper Tandy's Irish Pub

Ski Town Chicken Joint

RMU Breckenridge

Prospector

Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar