Quick Info
Summit elevation: 14,130 feet. Drive time: 60-90 minutes from Idaho Springs to summit. Season: Late May to early October. Fee: Recreation pass required. Wildlife: Mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America, climbing from Idaho Springs (7,526 feet) to just below the 14,265-foot summit. The 28-mile route passes through multiple ecosystems, from montane forest to alpine tundra, ending above treeline where mountain goats wander across the road.
This is the easiest way to experience a Colorado fourteener without hiking. You can drive to 14,130 feet, then walk a short path to the summit. For visitors with limited time or mobility, it's an unparalleled alpine experience.
The Drive
Start: Highway 103 from Idaho Springs. Becomes Highway 5 (Mount Evans Road) at Echo Lake.
Echo Lake (10,600 feet): Mountain lake with lodge, restrooms, and picnic area. Good turnaround point for those nervous about higher elevations.
Summit Lake (12,830 feet): Alpine lake surrounded by tundra. Popular hiking area. Restrooms available. Most visitors make it at least here.
Summit parking (14,130 feet): End of the road. Short walk to the actual 14,265-foot summit. Stone shelter built by the CCC in the 1930s.
Total driving distance: 28 miles one way. Allow 2-4 hours round trip depending on stops.
Wildlife
Mountain goats: The stars of Mount Evans. Herds frequent the summit area, often blocking roads and approaching cars. They're habituated to humans but remain wild—don't feed or approach too closely.
Bighorn sheep: Less common than goats but present on the mountain.
Marmots: Yellow-bellied marmots sun themselves on rocks throughout the alpine zone.
Pika: Small rabbit-like creatures in rocky areas. Listen for their distinctive calls.
Hiking Options
Summit Trail
Short walk from the parking lot to the true summit. Easy but at extreme altitude—go slowly.
Summit Lake to Summit
2.5 miles, 1,400 feet gain. Hike from Summit Lake to the summit for a more immersive alpine experience.
Chicago Lakes Trail
Access from Echo Lake. Longer hike to beautiful alpine lakes. See our hiking page for details.
Tips
Go early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common above treeline. Start your drive by mid-morning to summit before weather builds.
Watch for altitude effects. You're going from sea level equivalent to extreme altitude quickly. Headaches and shortness of breath are common. Take it slow at the top.
Bring layers. Summit temperatures are 30-40 degrees cooler than Denver. Wind chill can be significant.
Check road conditions. The summit section sometimes closes for weather even when the lower road is open. Call ahead or check CDOT.
Full tank of gas. No services on the mountain. The road is steep—fuel consumption is higher than normal.
Don't rush the wildlife. If goats are on the road, wait patiently. Honking stresses them. They'll move eventually.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the road open?
Typically late May through early October, depending on snow. The summit section may close earlier than the lower road. Check before going.
Is the road scary to drive?
It's steep and winding with some exposure, but paved throughout. No guardrails in places. Nervous drivers should be passengers. Take your time.
Will I see mountain goats?
Very likely, especially near the summit. They're most active in morning and evening. Summer is best for goat viewing.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely. One of Colorado's most accessible high-alpine experiences. The views, wildlife, and bragging rights are unmatched.
How long does the drive take?
60-90 minutes each way without stops. Allow 3-4 hours total with stops for photos, wildlife, and the summit walk.