Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Colorado
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway winds its way from Estes Park at the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park to Interstate Highway I-70, past dense forests, pristine lakes, and the towering peaks of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and the Indian Peaks. It travels 55 miles (89 kilometers) along the Continental Divide and provides excellent views of the Rocky Mountains’ Front Range.
Visitors often stretch their legs along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway with a stop in the wildlife-rich Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Golden Gate Canyon State Park, which has 12 hiking and biking trails. The byway also passes through charming mountain towns, including Nederland and Ward, which are worth exploring to grab a bite to eat.
If you don’t have your own wheels, or would rather skip the hassle of driving, you can book a tour of the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, led by a guide who can fill you in on the area’s history, geography, and wildlife.
Download a map in case you go into areas with no cell coverage.
Find safe spots to pull over when making photo stops.
In winter, drivers need snow tires or chains.
The byway is an official Colorado Electric Vehicle Byway and has multiple dual-port DC fast charging stations along the route.
The Peak to Peak Highway begins as State Highway CO-7 in Estes Park. Head south to the tiny town of Allenspark then turn right onto CO-72 to Nederland then south onto CO-119 through Blackhawk, into Clear Creek Canyon, and end at I-70. Allow at least two hours for the drive.
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is wonderful any time of year but is especially appealing during the fall when the aspen trees are draped in golden hues to create a magical leaf-peeping experience. The fall is also a great time for wildlife enthusiasts because it is elk mating season and the animals are abundant.
The Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway passes through a few ghost towns (abandoned gold- and silver-mining towns), including the once-thriving Caribou. Even today some prospectors mine in the creeks. A few gold mines along Highways 72 and 119 allow you to try your luck for a small fee—you might not strike gold but you will have fun.
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