- Peak to Peak Byway is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway
- Incredible views of Longs Peak and the Rockies
- Hundreds of miles of preserved wilderness area
- Visit historic sites, such as St. Malo’s chapel, and the Central City Opera House
- Take a detour to Moffat Tunnel
Why should I drive the Peak to Peak Byway?
Established in 1918, this road is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway.
The scenery and wildlife is incredible. Bask in the colorful hues of the Aspens and the Continental Divide.
Where does the Peak to Peak Byway begin and end?
The road begins in Estes Park and goes south all the way to US 6 (which connects to I-70).
From Estes Park, go south on Hwy 7. After Allenspark turn right on CO 72. Continue south on CO 72. In Nederland, continue south on CO 119 (you’ll pass a Visitor Center on your right). Keep heading south on CO 119. The byway ends at US 6 (Clear Creek Canyon Road). Go west on US 6 to connect with I-70.
How long does the Peak to Peak Byway take to drive?
The entire byway is 55 miles. It takes about 80 minutes to drive one way, but allow 2 hours.
For a shorter drive, it’s nice to go from Estes Park to Allenspark, grab a bite to eat, and return.
What will I see along the way?
Scenic Vistas:
- Witness wildlife and the stoic Rocky Mountains. Many peaks tower above 10,000 feet. Between Estes Park and Allenspark, appreciate the intensity of Longs Peak and Mt Meeker against the sky.
- This stretch of land goes from Rocky Mountain National Park through Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.
Historic Sites:
- Pockets of history, such as St. Malo’s chapel, are along the way.
- You’ll pass historic towns the whole way, including Allenspark, Nederland, Rollinsville, Black Hawk, and Central City.
- Central City plays a main role in the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush of the 1800s. It was coined “The Richest Square Mile On Earth.”
- Today you can enjoy the Central City Opera House, a National Historic Landmark, and visit a handful of gambling facilities throughout Central City and Black Hawk.
Skiing:
In the winter, take your skis and stop by Eldora Ski Resort, just west of the byway.
Camping:
Relax in Peaceful Valley, which has a lovely campground and dude ranch.
Moffat Tunnel:
- The Moffat Tunnel is an incredible endeavor that was completed in 1927.
- This railroad track runs 6.2 miles straight through mountains at over 9,200 ft, and is still considered an engineering triumph today.
- At Rollinsville, take a detour west to East Portal where you’ll find the Moffat Tunnel Trailhead.
