The best way to get to Mount Evans is via Interstate 70. There is a back way to get
to the Mt. Evans road from Bergen Park, but it will take more time - although a more
beautiful drive than I-70. If you're driving from Denver, take I-70 west. Once
you hit the foot hills, Idaho Springs is about 18 miles. This short drive provides a
great introduction to the rockies. Only minutes into the trip, you are greeted with
a spectacular view of the continental divide and just a little further, the interstate
sinks in to Clear Creak Canyon. When you get to Idaho Springs, take exit 240 (the
last exit in Idaho Springs going west) and make a left. You will now be going south
on highway 103. This is a very pretty drive up Chicago Creek canyon. The walls
of the canyon are thick with pine and aspen trees. You will stay on this road for
about 14 miles until you get to Echo Lake. At Echo Lake, you are treated to a
fabulous view of Mt. Evans and the surrounding cliffs - a taste of what's to come.
The Echo Lake lodge was built in the 1920's but now is basically a souvenir shop.
From here, you make a right and follow the signs to the start of highway 5 - the Mount
Evans Road. |
Great view of the continental divide on the way to Idaho Springs
Exit 240 in Idaho Springs to Mt. Evans road
Mt. Evans is only open in the summer
Mt. Evans road is a Colorado scenic byway - very scenic!
Looking down on Chicago Creek Canyon and the road on the way to Echo Lake
Looking down at the winding road to Echo Lake - Great forests in this area - so lush
and green!
Looking up the Chicago Creek canyon on the way to Echo Lake
Finally at Echo Lake - what a great view of Mt. Evans |