Why Is It Called the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway?
Usa, north-america
185 km
2,743 m
easy
Year-round
Get ready for the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway, a 115-mile thrill ride through the Colorado Rockies! Nestled in Lake, Eagle, Pitkin, and Summit Counties, this byway lives up to its name, boasting seriously high elevations – think mostly above 9,000 feet!
You'll start on Colorado State Highway 82, cruise along U.S. Highway 24, and if you're feeling adventurous, take the spur route north from Leadville to Copper Mountain for a loop. You'll be tackling Independence Pass, Fremont Pass, and Tennessee Pass!
Speaking of passes, Independence Pass is the real showstopper at 12,095 feet. Keep an eye out for views of Mount Elbert (14,440 feet) and Mount Massive (14,428 feet), the giants of the Rockies.
The whole route is paved and mostly open year-round, but a heads-up: Independence Pass usually closes from late October to late May because of snow. You can also connect to the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 185 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,743 m
- Difficulty
- easy
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