Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a mountain road in Colorado that extends 28 miles from Idaho Springs to the summit, reaching 14,271 feet in elevation. The route passes through changing landscapes, from forested areas at lower elevations to bare alpine terrain at the top.

The road was named after John Evans, who served as Colorado's second territorial governor from 1862 to 1865. The name honors his role in the region's early development.

The road draws photographers and nature observers who document seasonal changes, alpine plants, and mountain wildlife throughout the accessible months.

Visitors need to make vehicle reservations through recreation.gov and should carry warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly at higher elevations. The road is seasonally limited and can close during bad weather.

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep frequently appear along the road edges, particularly during early morning hours when fewer vehicles travel the route. These animals are adapted to the extreme elevation and offer visitors rare close-up views.

Location: Colorado

GPS coordinates: 39.59000,-105.64000

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:50