Conquer Mount Blue Sky: Summit the Highest Paved Road in North America and Explore Alpine Glacial Lakes
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required to handle altitude and optional summit hikes.
Overview
Experience the thrill of ascending Mount Blue Sky, North America's highest paved road, with panoramic summit views and serene glacial lakes. This full-day tour from Denver offers wildlife sightings, historic mining town charm, and unmatched alpine scenery.
Conquer Mount Blue Sky: Summit the Highest Paved Road in North America and Explore Alpine Glacial Lakes
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At dawn, the van pulls out from Denver’s historic Union Station, winding westward toward the jagged rise of Mount Blue Sky—formerly Mount Evans—scraping the Colorado sky at 14,265 feet. The journey ascends through Clear Creek Canyon, where sheer granite walls close in as the torrent below dares you ever onward. The paved road scaling this mountain peaks at an elevation unmatched anywhere else in North America, inviting travelers into an alpine wilderness that feels simultaneously immense and intimate.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Altitude
Bring layered clothing and hydrate well to manage thin mountain air and cooler summit temperatures.
Footwear Matters
Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for summit trails and exploring glacial lakes areas.
Check Weather Conditions
Summit access depends on weather; prepare for sudden changes and potential cancellations.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are common but keep a respectful distance for safety and preservation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bighorn sheep
- Mountain goats
History
The paved road was built during the 1940s and 50s to support a mountaintop research lab and has since become a celebrated scenic route.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths to protect fragile alpine vegetation and minimize disturbance to native wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Denver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Temperatures at high elevation fluctuate, so layering helps you stay comfortable.
Refillable Water Bottle
Hydration is crucial at altitude; water refill stations are limited.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Supportive footwear is necessary for walking at the summit and uneven terrain near lakes.
Sun Protection
High altitude increases UV exposure, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
summer specific