Mount Evans Scenic Byway

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.

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.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

Agate Dog Inc dba Geo Tours Whitewater Raft Trips
Based in Denver Metro Area in Morrison! Geo Tours is "Whitewater Rafting" in Denver. Experienced Staff - same ownership since 1981. Clear Creek - part-day trips; closest to Denver! The perfect family outing.

Bears Inn B&B and Log Cabin
1920's historic inn near Evergreen, a true mountain lodge with 11 guest rooms & cozy log 2-bedroom cabin with spectacular views. Lodge has outdoor deck & hot tub. Famous for our gourmet breakfasts.

Colorado Trout Hunters
Guided fly-fishing trips in the Denver Mountain Area on some of Colorado's premier public and private trout water. Chasing Colorado trout offers beautiful scenery, solitude, and a great fishing experience!

Cottonwood RV Park
Beautiful setting with well landscaped sites on/or near Chicago Creek, just south of Idaho Springs on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway (Highway 103). Open all year. 1-1/2 miles south of I-70 off Exit 240.

Echo Lake Lodge
A restaurant and gift shop on Scenic Colorado Highway 103 at the junction of Mount Evans Road between Idaho Springs and Evergreen. This Lakeside resturant is a must stop for the pie alone!

Hidee Gold Mine Tour
In Central City - a great family day trip. Dig your own high-grade gold ore to take home. Tour guides are actual hard-rock miners. Tours by appointment only. The ground is level and wheelchair accessible.

Quality Suites at Evergreen Parkway
This spectacular log & stone hotel near Golden features luxurious suites and rooms with balconies, hot tubs and patios. Relax on your private balcony and watch native deer & elk graze amongst the pines.

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