Mount Blue Sky: Summit Drive to the Top of the World
Drive to the top of the world on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America, for stunning alpine views.
Ascend to 14,130 feet on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America, for panoramic views of the Colorado Front Range. This exhilarating drive offers a unique opportunity to experience alpine tundra, spot wildlife, and explore the summit of a Colorado fourteener with minimal hiking.
A brief summary to Mount Blue Sky
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Reservations are required for vehicle entry to Mount Blue Sky. Purchase your timed-entry ticket online in advance at Recreation.gov.
- The weather on Mount Blue Sky can change rapidly. Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, and be prepared for wind, rain, and even snow, any time of year.
- Acclimatize to the altitude. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.
- The road is steep and winding. Vehicles over 30 feet long are not recommended.
- Be aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms. It's best to visit the summit in the morning.
Getting There
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Driving
The most common approach to Mount Blue Sky is via the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (Highway 5). From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 240 in Idaho Springs. Follow Highway 103 south for 13.5 miles to Echo Lake. From Echo Lake, turn onto Highway 5 and drive approximately 14 miles to the summit. Be aware that a reservation is required to enter and park at the summit between 8 AM and 6 PM. The reservation fee is minimal, but the entrance fee is separate unless you have an 'America the Beautiful' pass. Note that the upper portion of Highway 5 is closed for construction through 2025.
Discover more about Mount Blue Sky
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.
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.
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!
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.
Essential places to dine
Traverse Restaurant & Bar
35.7 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Traverse Restaurant & Bar in Breckenridge.
Soupz On
36.3 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Soupz On in Breckenridge—your ultimate destination for delicious and comforting soups.
Oaxacan bites
36.3 km
Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Oaxacan Bites in Breckenridge - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Tin Plate Pizza
36.3 km
Experience the best pizza in Breckenridge at Tin Plate Pizza - where quality ingredients meet innovative recipes in a cozy atmosphere.
The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
36.4 km
Discover Breckenridge's culinary gem at The Canteen Tap House & Tavern - where local flavors meet a vibrant bar scene.
Hearthstone Restaurant
36.4 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Hearthstone Restaurant in Breckenridge – where fine dining meets breathtaking mountain views.
Twist
36.4 km
Experience eclectic fine dining at Twist in Breckenridge - where innovative cuisine meets a vibrant bar atmosphere amidst stunning mountain views.
Blue River Bistro
36.4 km
Experience exquisite American-Italian cuisine at Blue River Bistro, nestled in scenic Breckenridge - perfect for any dining occasion.
Salt Creek Steakhouse
36.4 km
Indulge in expertly grilled steaks and savory BBQ at Salt Creek Steakhouse, where every meal is an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience.
The Carlin Breckenridge
36.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at The Carlin Breckenridge – where every dish is a masterpiece amid stunning mountain views.
Tavern Underground
36.4 km
Discover Tavern Underground: A cozy bar in Breckenridge offering delectable American dishes and unique cocktails in a vibrant setting.
Bird and Cow
36.4 km
Discover Bird and Cow in Breckenridge - where gourmet burgers meet innovative American cuisine in a cozy mountain setting.
Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon
36.4 km
Experience gourmet dining at Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon in Breckenridge—where prime cuts meet rustic charm amidst stunning mountain views.
Rootstalk Breckenridge
36.4 km
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Breckenridge Ski & Sport
35.9 km
Explore the beauty of Breckenridge with top-notch ski and outdoor rental services. Your adventure starts here!
A Racer's Edge
36.4 km
Discover A Racer's Edge, Breckenridge's premier sporting goods store for ski gear and outdoor sports equipment, where adventure awaits.
Lace and Lariat
36.4 km
Explore Lace and Lariat in Breckenridge, a charming boutique offering unique fashion and accessories for both men and women amidst stunning mountain views.
Two Wild Sisters
36.4 km
Explore Two Wild Sisters in Breckenridge, a charming gift shop filled with unique handcrafted jewelry and local art treasures.
Breckenridge Shirts & More
36.4 km
Explore unique apparel and souvenirs at Breckenridge Shirts & More, capturing the charm of Colorado's mountain town.
Björn's Colorado Honey
36.4 km
Explore Björn's Colorado Honey: A sweet destination in Breckenridge for artisanal honey and local treasures.
Towne Square Mall
36.4 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
36.4 km
Explore stylish clothing at Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet in Breckenridge, CO, where mountain charm meets fashion-forward shopping.
Slope Style Ski + Bike
36.5 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
36.5 km
Explore the heart of Breckenridge at The Shop On Main Street, where unique clothing and accessories meet the charm of Colorado's mountains.
Simply Breck
36.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and stylish clothing at Simply Breck, the ultimate shopping destination in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Mountain Tees
36.5 km
Discover the charm of Breckenridge through unique T-shirt designs at Mountain Tees, your ultimate shopping destination for quality apparel.
Arabella Adventures
36.5 km
Shop at Arabella Adventures in Breckenridge for unique women's clothing, jewelry, and gifts that embody Colorado's mountain charm.
Cabin Fever
36.5 km
Explore Cabin Fever in Breckenridge for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Rockies, perfect for every traveler.
Shirt Off My Back
36.5 km
Discover unique T-shirts and souvenirs that celebrate the spirit of Breckenridge at Shirt Off My Back, your go-to shopping destination in Colorado.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
36.4 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
36.5 km
Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.
RMU Breckenridge
36.5 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!
Prospector
36.5 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
36.5 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
36.5 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.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
36.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
The Absinthe Bar
36.6 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Molly Jacks
36.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
Fireside Lounge
36.6 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
37.2 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
37.2 km
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.
