Trip ideas while visiting Denver in Colorado
When you visit Denver and want to explore the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, make sure to set aside a day for a scenic drive up to Mount Evans. What makes this experience truly special is not just the destination itself, but the amazing journey you’ll have along the way. To reach Mount Evans, you’ll travel on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, a picturesque two-lane road often referred to as the “road into the sky.” This route boasts an impressive elevation change of almost 9,000 feet, taking you to a breathtaking height of 14,264 feet above sea level at the Mount Evans peak. Throughout your drive, you’ll come across several lookout points where you can stop and marvel at the stunning views of the Rockies.
When driving to Mount Evans, it’s best to go at a leisurely pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery, especially around Echo Lake Park. Echo Lake, located between Idaho Springs and the top of Mount Evans, is known for its great fishing spots, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Another place worth visiting is the Mount Goliath location of the Denver Botanic Gardens, just past Echo Lake. But there’s more than just the views to consider along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. People who have been there advise driving cautiously and slowly due to steep drop-offs. They also suggest dressing in layers because the temperatures can change as you go higher in elevation.