Mt. Evans Scenic Byway increases in elevation an impressive 7,000 feet in just 28 miles, and is home to diverse wildlife, dazzling scenery, and many recreational activities to keep visitors busy. Mt. Evans Byway is the highest paved highway in North America, reaching an altitude of 14,264 feet.

From Denver, take I-70 west and take Exit 240. Travel south and follow Highway 103 to Echo Lake. At Echo Lake is the Forest Service's check-in station. From here, the road runs to the summit of Mt. Evans. The byway is 28 miles (44.8 kilometers) long and will take about an hour to drive.

Road to top of Mount Evans

Mount Evans

At the summit, visitors feel small in comparison to the breathtaking scene. The entire Front Range and the Continental Divide stretch out below, and beside them are wildflowers, lichens, grasses, pristine alpine lakes, marmots, rock-jumping mountain goats, and big horn sheep. Not only do some consider this the best place to catch a glimpse of the big horn sheep, but it is also one of the few places where alpine tundra exists below the Arctic Circle.

When looking for adventure, this is the place to find it. Recreational opportunities are endless. One can go fishing in clear mountain lakes and streams, or stop for a picnic and view wildflowers and wildlife. For a more athletic experience, there is also hiking, horseback riding, backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, rafting, biking, and four-wheeling. The mountain offers medium to hard trails for biking.

A popular trail of medium grade is approximately 17 miles to the top of Echo Lake. One should get an early start on this trail, as the weather and traffic get worse later in the day. It costs six dollars to drive the road, but it is well worth the money. Take time to stop in this area at the Echo Lake Lodge and Restaurant. Built in 1926, its authentic log cabin design and unique architectural artwork are reason enough to visit.

There are several points of interest that shouldn't be missed when visiting this area. Many prospectors struck it rich during the gold rush in Idaho Springs, located at the beginning of the byway, and the town itself is rich in history and tradition. The quaint Victorian community offers camping, lodging, biking, hiking, rafting and relaxing in the hot springs pools. Evidence of the gold rush still remains in the Argo Gold Mine, which was once the longest tunnel in the world, connecting Idaho Springs to Central City. The Colorado School of Mines uses an old mine as an underground classroom, and it is also open for tour to visitors. Whether you are looking to be dazzled with adventure, or just to escape the everyday pressures of work and the city, this is the place to come.

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