With towering peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and shimmering alpine lakes, Colorado’s Rocky Mountains offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the U.S. Numerous scenic byways wind through these soaring ranges, leading to breathtaking vistas and adventures along the way. Away from crowded highways, these routes showcase the Rockies’ allure on roads far less traveled.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
The highest paved road in North America, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway climbs over 7,000 feet to 14,264 feet at Mount Evans’ summit. Hairpin turns snake their way up the mountain, leading to jaw-dropping overlooks of sheer cliffs and rocky peaks. Stop at Summit Lake to see bristlecone pines before reaching the top. Then hike the short trail up to the ruins of Summit House with sweeping 360° views.
Trail Ridge Road
Crossing through Rocky Mountain National Park, this iconic drive ascends over 12,000 feet at Milner Pass. Alpine tundra blankets the landscape at these great heights. Pull over at overlooks like Rainbow Curve to gaze at ridges extending for miles. Spot bighorn sheep grazing along the road at Forest Canyon Overlook. Descend through mountain meadows dotted with columbine flowers back into thick pine forests.
San Juan Skyway
This all-day loop drive tours the soaring San Juan mountain range in the southwest corner of the state. Historic mining roads like Million Dollar Highway wind past abandoned mines and mountain ghost towns. See ridges eroded into spires and pinnacles at Chimney Rock. Drive through groves of aspens that turn shimmering gold in fall. Then soak in the hot springs at Pagosa Springs after a day of mountain cruising.
Top of the Rockies
Linking Leadville, Twin Lakes, and Aspen, this scenic route passes through the heart of the Rockies. Drive over Independence Pass, where the road travels above the tree line with sheer cliffs on both sides. Continue through the lush Twin Lakes basin, where the Maroon Bells reflect in the calm waters. End the drive in Aspen to wander the charming Victorian town and enjoy afternoon drinks on sunny patios.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Connecting Rocky Mountain National Park to the mountain towns of Nederland and Black Hawk, this 55-mile route showcases the Rockies’ peaks. After passing through Estes Park, stop at the Lily Lake trailhead. Hike around the peaceful waters surrounded by granite cliffs that glow orange at sunset. Further along, turnouts offer views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide slicing through the mountains.
Conclusion
From mountain passes over 12,000 feet high to routes skirting cliff edges, Colorado’s scenic drives offer nonstop views of the Rockies’ splendor. Follow quiet backroads to discover columbine-filled meadows, historic mining sites, and panoramas of snow-capped summits. Wherever your wheels take you, enjoy the wide-open vistas as you cruise through one of America’s most beautiful ranges. Just be sure to pull over to take it all in!
