Colorado Motorcycle Rides – The Mount Evans Scenic Byway

While Colorado abounds with breathtaking routes, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway motorcycle ride is perhaps the most remarkable one. Ascending to over 14,000 feet this stunning byway boasts the highest elevation of all North American paved roads. 

Stunning vistas, challenging turns, and diverse wildlife will make Mt. Evans Scenic Byway an unforgettable experience in your Colorado Rocky Mountains bike trip.

How To Reach The Mt. Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway starts in Idaho Springs, CO, at the Interstate 70 juncture with State Highway 103. A 13-mile ride along State Highway103 will take you to State Highway 5, which is The Mount Evans Road. The 15-mile winding road extends almost to the summit of Mt. Evans through pristine evergreen forests, spectacular mountain vistas, and snow banks that may occur even in high summer.

The Mt. Evans Road owes its striking beauty in part to nature and in part to the clever design of Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., who was a nationally acclaimed landscape architect that designed the route to show off the wild glory of the Colorado Rocky Mountains.

Exploring Mt. Evans

Completing the Mt. Evans ride will probably take you at least an hour, and possibly more if you stop to take pictures of the dazzling views. As you ride, you will probably glimpse Rocky Mountain wildlife, like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, foxes, deer, marmots, and birds.

To reach the actual Mt. Evans summit, make a short hike from the parking lot at the end of the road. Keep to marked trails to protect the local flora and fauna. The mountaintop views may differ, depending on the season—from fresh late May snow to barren-looking tundra landscapes closer to summer’s end.

Right near the summit, you will see the ruins of the Crest House, a building dating from 1942. Formerly a gift shop and restaurant, the Crest House now serves as a summit observation point.

Keep in mind that the Mt. Evans Road is only open from Memorial Day through Labor Day (weather permitting) because of heavy snow during the rest of the year.

Tips for Your Mount Evans Scenic Byway Motorcycle Ride

The following tips will help you make the most of your Mount Evans motorcycle trip:

• The higher you ride, the colder it will get. Make sure to wear layers of warm clothing and a hat, and don’t forget to use sunscreen at high altitudes.
• Summer weekends are probably the most popular time for riding the Mt. Evans Road. You will enjoy your ride more if you plan to reach the summit before noon.
• Avoid riding the Mt. Evans Scenic Byway in thunderstorms and other inclement weather conditions. Thunderstorms are more common in the afternoons, so an early start will help you avoid bad weather.
• To keep safe throughout the hairpins and drop-offs of the Mt. Evans Road, ride carefully and obey the speed limit at all times. The 15-mile summit roadway has no guardrails.
• At over 14,000 feet above sea level, you may experience some altitude sickness. Move slowly and drink plenty of water (not carbonated beverages, which may make you feel worse).

Law Tigers: Secure Legal Backup from Motorcycle Lawyers Across the U.S.

When you explore famous roads like The Mount Evans Scenic Byway motorcycle ride, the last thing you want to think of is a bike accident. But when the worst happens, our team at Law Tigers is here to help you and your family with dedicated representation.

Call us at 1-888-863-7216 24/7 for a free case evaluation and request our free rider benefit card today.