Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
72 CO-7, Estes Park, CO 80517
Hours
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is open 24 hours, weather permitting.
Cost
Driving the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is free. Some attractions along the route do have fees:
- Rocky Mountain National Park Day Pass (entering at Estes Park): $30 per vehicle
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park Daily Vehicle Pass: $10
- Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests Day Use Fees: $5–$10
Prices are subject to change.
About
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway dates back to 1918, making it Colorado's oldest scenic route. Stretching 55 miles, it was built to bring travelers into the heart of the Front Range and continues to connect people to Colorado's wild beauty today. It links the historic mining towns of Central City and Black Hawk with the natural wonder of Estes Park.
Long before tourists toured the tarmac, this stretch was part of the Colorado Gold Rush. When John H. Gregory struck gold near what's now Central City in 1859, fortune seekers came in droves. What started as rough wagon trails and narrow railroad lines evolved into the byway we know today.
The drive passes through Rocky Mountain National Park, with views of the Continental Divide without having to climb its peaks. Along the way, you can explore the architectural beauty of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rocks, ghost towns and old mines scattered along the route, and aspen forests that turn brilliant gold in late September.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
The byway follows the backbone of the Rockies through the Continental Divide, with views of iconic summits like Mount Meeker and Longs Peak. Passing through the Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests, the landscape shifts from bright aspen groves to open subalpine woods as you climb.
For a glimpse of Colorado's Gold Rush days, the ghost town of Caribou sits just west of Nederland. In the 1800s it produced over $5 million in silver, making it the largest silver mine in Colorado. Today only a few buildings, foundations, and cemeteries remain.
Music fans will recognize Caribou Ranch Recording Studio, one of the world's most prestigious facilities during its heyday. Michael Jackson, U2, Chicago, Billy Joel, John Lennon, and Elton John all recorded here. The studio closed in 1985 after a fire destroyed the control room.
Wildlife is another draw. Elk, moose, and mule deer are commonly spotted, and traffic sometimes pauses for an entire herd to pass in fall. Birdwatchers come for hawks and eagles soaring above the valleys. Various trailheads off the main road offer hiking and nature breaks when you need to stretch your legs.
Local Tips
- Gas stations are limited, so fill up in Estes Park or Black Hawk before you go.
- Download an offline map or carry a paper one; cell coverage is spotty.
- Leave early to avoid summer afternoon storms.
- Dress in layers, as higher elevations are noticeably cooler.
- Bring water and snacks since options along the route are limited.
