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So what would make you climb into a car to explore the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway? After all, Estes Park has plenty of outdoor options to do on foot. While this is a valid argument, keep reading and see if we don't change your mind!

History fans will appreciate the fact that the road 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 Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.

Since opening in 1918, this iconic route set the standard for scenic drives across the West. Travelers can enjoy the Continental Divide without having to climb its peaks.

Nature lovers marvel at the peaks, forests, and views as the drive passes through the Rocky Mountain National Park. You can also explore the architectural beauty of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rocks, adding yet another reason to take the drive.

Also of interest are the ghost towns and old mines scattered along the route. While many require accessing the dirt roads crisscrossing the byway, some are visible from the road.

If you're still not convinced it's worth exploring, perhaps our next section will do the job!

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Fun Facts & Cool Features

By far one of the best reasons to explore this route is the views. The byway follows the "backbone" of the Rockies through the Continental Divide. You'll have breathtaking views of iconic summits like Mount Meeker and Longs Peak.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate passing through the Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests. You'll witness a bright aspen forest, especially stunning in late September, followed by open, subalpine woods as you ascend. This changing landscape is a photographer's paradise!

For a glimpse of Colorado's Gold Rush days, you'll pass authentic ghost towns like Apex and Nevadaville, but the largest is Caribou 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.

Caribou will also pique the interest of pop music fans. The iconic Caribou Ranch Recording Studio is there, and during its heyday, it was one of the world's most prestigious facilities. Legends like Michael Jackson, U2, Chicago, Billy Joel, John Lennon, and Elton John recorded chart-topping hits at this studio. Sadly, the studio closed in 1985 when a fire destroyed the control room.

Wildlife is another appealing aspect. Drivers commonly see elk, moose, and mule deer. In fact, traffic sometimes pauses for an entire herd to pass, especially in the fall. Birdwatchers flock (sorry!) to the byway to spot hawks and eagles soaring above the valleys.

If you need to stretch your legs, the various trailheads off the main road offer hiking and nature breaks.

By now, we hope you agree that adding the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway to your Estes Park vacation is a must! It's easy to explore, full of history, classic Colorado forests, and fascinating old towns.

Local Tips

Gas stations are limited, so fill up in Estes Park or Black Hawk.
Download an offline map or carry a paper map; cell coverage is limited.
Leave early to avoid summer afternoon storms.
Dress in layers; higher elevations are cooler.
Bring water and snacks since options are limited.

Staging environment