Drive from Denver into two distinct Colorados in one day: the music-cutting, stone jaws of Red Rocks and the alpine sweep of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway. This private day tour packs geology, wildlife, and high-country views into a single, guided loop.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You climb out of the city with coffee in a paper cup and the skyline still shrinking behind you; the highway unfurls toward red sandstone and alpine air. Within an hour the landscape changes from suburbia to open rock and scrub, then to thick lodgepole and trembling aspen. The first stop is Red Rocks—its rust-colored fins rising like folded pages of deep time, the amphitheater a human-scale notch cut into stone that asks you to look up as much as out.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended—able to handle short hikes at high elevation and several hours sitting in the van between stops.
Wildlife
History
The route was developed by the Denver Mountain Parks system to connect foothill parks to alpine sites; the amphitheater at Red Rocks was carved from Dakota sandstone and has hosted performances for generations.
Conservation
High-elevation ecosystems are fragile—stay on roads and trails, pack out waste, and respect seasonal closures to protect tundra and wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Private Full-Day Mount Blue Sky & Red Rocks Tour from Denver today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimate before summit hikes
Spend at least the first hour taking it easy—short walks and hydration help reduce altitude effects before any summit strolls.
Layer for sudden weather
Temperatures can swing 30°F between Echo Lake and the summit—pack a windproof layer and hat even in summer.
Respect wildlife and distance
Bighorn sheep and marmots are common; use binoculars and do not approach or feed animals.
Timing for light and crowds
Start early to catch golden light at Red Rocks and to avoid afternoon storms higher on the byway.
Reusable water bottle (2L+ capacity)
High-elevation air is dry; bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Layered outerwear (windproof jacket)
Wind and sun at high altitude make a light waterproof/windproof shell essential year-round.
Sturdy trail shoes
Uneven alpine trails and rocky viewpoints require solid traction and ankle support.
High-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses
UV intensifies with elevation—protect skin and eyes on exposed slopes.
summer