Take An Unforgettable Drive To The Top Of Colorado’s Highest Mountain

Are you ready to break free from the house and see something new and exciting? If so, Colorado has the perfect drive for you, as roads vary in distance from short and sweet to long and winding. In terms of today's drive, it is both unforgettable and record-breaking, as it is billed as being the highest paved road in not only Colorado but in the country:

Welcome to the Mount Evans Scenic Byway!

Located 60 miles west of Denver, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a 28-mile-long road that is noted not only for its incredible climb in elevation but for being the highest paved road in North America!

Beginning at the Idaho Springs Visitor Center, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway winds through the Mount Evans Wilderness to the top of the summit, where you can get out and stretch your legs.

As if the drive's beauty was not reason enough to take it, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway also passes through 5 different climate zones, making for a truly Only in Colorado road.

You never know who (or what) you will see on your Mount Evans journey!

Please note: The ascent features an elevation gain of 9,000 feet.

Due to the continuous altitude gain (AKA sporadic weather) and an ending elevation of 14,130 feet, Mount Evans is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

To learn more about the Mount Evans Scenic Byway - including current area conditions - please visit the U.S. Forest Service's website.

Do you have a favorite place that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here! For even more of our favorite Centennial State drives, click on Everyone In Colorado Should Take This Underappreciated Scenic Drive.