A one-day loop that pairs the cinematic amphitheatre at Red Rocks with a high-alpine drive up Mount Blue Sky. Expect tight canyon roads, an alpine lake picnic, and summit views that make the climb worth the breath.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto a cool bus at Union Station as Denver’s skyline slides away and the city exhales into open highway. Within 30 minutes the landscape has hardened into stone — red fins of sandstone lean toward the sky at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where concrete seats climb the slope and the air smells faintly of pine and dust. Cameras click; a guide sketches the geological story as drivers cough to a stop so you can peer into a venue that feels carved out of the mountain itself.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: able to walk short trails and tolerate periods of standing at high altitude; not recommended for people with serious heart or respiratory conditions.
Wildlife
History
This route follows corridors used by Indigenous peoples and later by miners and tourists; Red Rocks has hosted performances since the early 20th century and the Mount Blue Sky road was built to give motorists alpine access.
Conservation
Alpine ecosystems are fragile; stay on designated paths, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing vegetation or wildlife to minimize lasting impact.
Reserve your spot on the Mount Blue Sky Alpine Summit & 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 you go
Avoid scheduling this on your first day in Colorado; spend a day at lower altitude to reduce risk of altitude sickness.
Hydrate and refill
Bring a reusable water bottle — the tour provides a refill point but water is the simplest defense against altitude headaches.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing 30°F between Denver and the summit; windproof outer layers and a warm midlayer are recommended.
Respect wildlife
Give mountain goats and marmots plenty of space — do not approach or feed animals for your safety and theirs.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated helps prevent altitude-related symptoms and the tour has a refill point.
Windproof shell
Spring can be windy and cool at elevation; a shell blocks gusts and light precipitation.
spring
Insulating midlayer (fleece or down jacket)
Temps drop quickly above treeline; a warm layer keeps you comfortable during summit stops.
fall
Sturdy walking shoes
You’ll do short walks on uneven, rocky ground around lakes and overlooks.
summer