Explore Mount Evans and Mount Blue Sky: Colorado’s Highest Paved Road Adventure from Denver
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Should be in good physical shape to acclimate to high altitudes and comfortable walking short distances on uneven terrain.
Overview
Experience Colorado’s highest paved road on a full-day guided tour from Denver to Mount Evans (Mount Blue Sky). Explore alpine lakes, spot bighorn sheep, and enjoy Old West charm in Idaho Springs without the need to rent a car.
Explore Mount Evans and Mount Blue Sky: Colorado’s Highest Paved Road Adventure from Denver
Select participants and date
Just over an hour northwest of Denver, Colorado's Rocky Mountains rise abruptly, daring travelers to escape the city's grid and follow the highest paved road in North America to over 14,000 feet. This full-day small group tour escorts adventurers from Denver into alpine realms where the air thins and the landscape shifts dramatically.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for variable mountain weather
Temperatures can drop rapidly above timberline; bring warm, waterproof layers even in summer.
Stay hydrated at high elevation
Altitude can dehydrate you faster—carry water and take frequent sips throughout the day.
Bring sturdy footwear for short hikes
Trails near alpine lakes and St. Mary’s Glacier can be rocky and uneven; hiking shoes or boots are recommended.
Start early to avoid afternoon crowds and weather changes
Mountain weather often shifts in the afternoon; early departure increases chances for clear views and quieter paths.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bighorn Sheep
- Marmots
History
Idaho Springs grew rapidly during Colorado’s gold rush era in the mid-1800s and still carries the spirit of mining heritage.
Conservation
Mount Evans and surrounding areas are managed to protect fragile alpine ecosystems; visitors are encouraged to stick to trails and pack out waste.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Denver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Prepare for sudden temperature changes and wind above timberline.
summer specific
Water bottle or hydration pack
Necessary to stay hydrated in dry mountain air and high elevation.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction and support on rocky, uneven trails around alpine lakes and glacier areas.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
The sun’s intensity increases sharply with elevation, requiring effective protection.
summer specific