Mount Evans Scenic Byway in Colorado 2025

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is located about 100 km (60 miles) west of Denver. This elevated mountain road offers a breathtaking journey that snakes and climbs from the high plains to the prominent Mount Evans summit with an elevation of 4,310 m (14,271 feet). Mount Evans is the highest peak of the Chicago Peaks massif. In the winter, the road is covered with snow, so a portion between Echo Lake to the Mount Evans summit is closed. It's open only during the warm time of the year from Memorial Day weekend to Labour Day. In other words, the season is late May to early September.

The highest paved road in North America was designed to link Summit Lake Park and Echo Lake Park to the foothills park areas. Without a doubt, some of the best vistas await visitors on the banks of picturesque Echo Lake. There are a few picnic tables as well as hiking trails for longer stays. Fishing in the lake is also possible.

Mount Evans massif is part of the Mount Evans Wilderness. The highway is the only thing that is excluded from the wilderness and it provides the unique chance to see untouched alpine sceneries and picturesque snow-capped peaks which are among the most beautiful in North America. Get ready to spot Rocky Mountain Goats, Bighorn Sheep, ptarmigans, and other wildlife.