Mount Blue Sky Day Trip from Denver
North America's highest paved road — 4,300 m without leaving the car
A one-day drive from Denver to Mount Blue Sky — 179 mi round trip, about 3h 11m behind the wheel, with stops, timings and where to eat already worked out.
Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel
A well-preserved 1860s gold-rush mining town, a nice easy stroll before the mountain drive begins.
💡 Park on Miner St and walk the short main strip; no need for more than 20-30 minutes.
2350 Riverside Dr, Idaho Springs
Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive
The highest paved road in North America, climbing above 14,000 feet through tundra with sweeping views of the Rockies.
💡 Drive slowly, watch for mountain goats, and expect thin air and cold wind even in summer at the top.
Mount Blue Sky Rd, Evergreen
Summit Lake Park
An alpine lake with reflections of the peak, an easy roadside stop rather than a hike, a highlight along the byway.
💡 Short flat boardwalk to the lakeshore — no strenuous walking needed to enjoy the view.
Evergreen
Beau Jo's Idaho Springs
A local Colorado institution known for its mountain-pie style pizza, a good stop on the way back down.
💡 Popular on weekends — expect a short wait at peak lunch/dinner hours.
1517 Miner St, Idaho Springs
- Book the Mount Blue Sky timed-entry reservation online well before your visit date
- Fill up on gas in Idaho Springs — no services once you're on the byway
- Check for afternoon thunderstorms in summer — mornings are calmer and safer on the summit road
- I-70 can back up on weekends near Idaho Springs — aim for an early start
- Georgetown Loop Railroad+12 mi
A scenic narrow-gauge train ride through a historic silver-mining canyon, a relaxed alternative if you have extra time.
- St. Mary's Glacier+9 mi
A short, mostly flat lakeside walk to a permanent snowfield, popular and easy without real climbing.
- Echo Lake Park+3 mi
A calm mountain lake right along the byway approach, good for a quiet photo stop.
Make this trip your own
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