Mount Blue Sky: Summit of the Rockies

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.