Peak-to-Peak Highway: Colorado's Scenic Byway

The Peak-to-Peak Highway is Colorado's oldest scenic byway, designated in 1918 when the state first recognized that some roads are worth driving for their own sake. Running along the Continental Divide from Nederland to Estes Park, the route delivers constant mountain views, historic mining towns, and access to some of the Front Range's best hiking and outdoor recreation.

From Boulder, the Peak-to-Peak makes an excellent day trip on its own or as a scenic route to Rocky Mountain National Park. The drive takes about two hours without stops, but the pull-offs, hiking trails, and small towns along the way reward a more leisurely approach.

The Route

From Boulder: Take Highway 119 (Canyon Boulevard) west through Boulder Canyon to Nederland. The canyon drive is scenic in its own right, following Boulder Creek past climbing areas and the town of Boulder Falls. In Nederland, pick up Highway 72 (the actual Peak-to-Peak) heading north.

Highway 72 section: The southern portion passes through mixed forest with periodic mountain views. Ward is the first town - a quirky mountain community with a few buildings and a general store. Past Ward, the views open up significantly as the road climbs above 9,000 feet.

Highway 7 section: At the junction, Highway 7 continues north toward Estes Park. This section offers some of the route's best views, with the Longs Peak massif dominating the western horizon. Several pull-offs provide photo opportunities of the iconic fourteener.

Ending in Estes Park: The highway drops into Estes Park from the south, entering the main strip near Lake Estes. From here you can continue into Rocky Mountain National Park or explore the town before heading back.

Worth Stopping For

Nederland anchors the southern end of the route. This mountain town has genuine character - good coffee, the famous Frozen Dead Guy Days festival, and Carousel of Happiness (a hand-carved carousel). Budget at least a coffee stop; it deserves more.

Brainard Lake Recreation Area is a short detour from the highway, offering access to the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The lake itself is gorgeous, surrounded by peaks. The trailhead for Lake Isabelle and other hikes is here. A recreation fee or pass is required.

Peak to Peak viewpoints are marked along the route, with parking areas and interpretive signs. The views of the Continental Divide are especially good in the northern section near Allenspark.

Allenspark is a small community with a historic chapel and access to Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Wild Basin trailhead offers excellent hiking with fewer crowds than the main park areas.

Fall Colors

The Peak-to-Peak is legendary for fall foliage. Aspen groves line much of the route, turning brilliant gold in late September and early October. The timing varies by elevation and weather, but late September is typically peak season.

Weekend traffic during leaf-peeping season is intense. Expect slow going and full parking areas at popular viewpoints. Weekday visits offer the same colors with less company. Early morning starts help with both traffic and photography light.

Winter Driving

The Peak-to-Peak is paved and maintained year-round, but winter conditions require respect. Snow is common, ice patches form in shaded sections, and the elevation means colder temperatures than Boulder. Check conditions before departing and carry appropriate gear.

Winter offers its own beauty - snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and far fewer tourists. The towns remain open, and the drive is entirely manageable with standard winter driving precautions.