The Peak to Peak Highway

Tucked into Colorado’s rugged Front Range, the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is a thrilling 55-mile journey through alpine landscapes, historic towns, and some of the state’s most revered natural areas. It was officially designated a Colorado Scenic Byway in 1918, making it the first in the state and one of its most storied routes. Connecting Estes Park to Interstate 70, this highway carves a winding course through mountain peaks, pine forests, gold rush towns, and clear mountain lakes.

The drive begins in Estes Park, home to the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. From there, it snakes south along Colorado Highway 7, transforming an ordinary day trip into a sensory escape through changing elevations, sharp geological contrasts, and a parade of seasonal color.

A Classic Mountain Drive With Wild Appeal

The entire route can be completed in around three hours, but you’ll want to slow down. Every few miles reveals a new landscape: the jagged shoulders of Longs Peak, golden ribbons of aspen in the fall, and craggy outcrops softened by carpets of wildflowers in summer.

Starting on Highway 7 in Estes Park, the road skirts Lily Mountain and offers quick access to peaceful Lily Lake. This roadside jewel is ringed by a short, flat trail that’s ideal for a break from the car. From the lake’s edge, you can take in wide-open views of Longs Peak and Estes Cone. Just a bit farther down the highway is Wild Basin, a quieter southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Day hikers and backpackers can venture into the backcountry here, with Calypso Cascades offering a standout stop where rushing waters tumble through dense forest.

Timed entry permits are required at Lily Lake and Wild Basin between late May and late October during peak hours. Planning ahead ensures a smooth visit during these popular months.

Allenspark to Ward

Beyond Estes Park, the highway winds through Allenspark, a small mountain town framed by views of Mt. Meeker. Just outside town stands St. Malo’s Chapel, also known as the Chapel on the Rocks. Built on a stone pedestal and framed by high peaks, the chapel provides a tranquil photo opportunity and moment of reflection. Next door, the Tahosa Coffee Shop offers strong coffee and mountain-made snacks, while Eagle Plume’s Trading Post, housed in a historic cabin, sells authentic Native American jewelry and crafts.

From Allenspark, the route continues south on Highway 72 toward Ward. At over 9,000 feet, this quiet community offers access to the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, one of the most scenic destinations on the drive. The lakes here are mirror-clear, the air is pine-scented and crisp, and trails like Long Lake and Mitchell Lake welcome hikers and their dogs for easy walks through the alpine terrain.

Nederland to Black Hawk

As you pass into Nederland, the road transitions to Highway 119. This lively alpine town has a laid-back personality and plenty of stops worth lingering over. Local cafes and a popular Sunday farmers market draw visitors and residents alike, and the Mining Museum invites hands-on exploration with gold panning activities that are especially popular with kids.

Continuing south, the drive twists past old mine tailings, steep ravines, and relics of Colorado’s gold rush past. Elevations drop from 9,600 feet near Ward to 8,000 feet in Black Hawk. Along the way, you’ll spot traces of mining operations that once boomed in this area. Gravel roads split off from the main highway, leading toward ghost towns like Hesse and Apex and up into secluded high-country lakes.

In Black Hawk, the tone shifts. This historic mining town is now home to a cluster of casinos that add a dash of neon and nightlife to the quiet mountain landscape. Several of these buildings date back to the late 1800s, lending an architectural contrast to the newer entertainment venues. While some come to try their luck, others simply enjoy walking among the preserved facades and catching echoes of a town built by fortune seekers.

Autumn’s Golden Glow

Though beautiful all year, the highway reaches its peak visual drama in autumn. Aspen groves flare into fiery shades of yellow and gold, lighting up the landscape against the deep greens of surrounding pine and spruce forests. On sunny days, the leaves seem to shimmer as the wind rustles through the trees. It’s a season that attracts photographers, wildlife watchers, and leaf-peepers from all over the country.

Along the way, elk gather in meadows near Estes Park, and hikers find fewer crowds on trails that now crunch underfoot with fallen leaves. The combination of crisp mountain air, fewer tourists, and glowing landscapes makes fall the most popular time to travel this route.

Planning Tips

To make the most of a Peak to Peak Highway adventure, consider the following:

• Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer and capture the morning light
• Check for timed entry permits if visiting Lily Lake or Wild Basin between May and October
• Pack layers, as temperatures can shift quickly with elevation
• Bring a camera, especially in September and October
• Plan an overnight in Estes Park or Nederland to extend the experience

Where to Stay

Estes Park offers a variety of overnight options. From riverside cottages to mountain lodges, travelers will find accommodations with rustic charm and easy access to nature.

• Aspen Winds: Close to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park
• Lazy R Cottages: Nestled along the Fall River, perfect for a cozy retreat
• Sunnyside Knoll: Offers cabins with privacy and views

A Drive to Remember

The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is a road meant for lingering. With every curve, it reveals something new: a forgotten mine, a glowing aspen grove, a still lake, or a historic chapel holding steady against the sky. Whether you seek quiet hikes, cultural stops, or the sheer exhilaration of mountain scenery, this route captures the spirit of Colorado in every mile.