Best to arrive by 10am on weekends. Vehicles over 30' long are not recommended on CO 5 (Mount Evans road) due to the steep, narrow, winding road. It’s essentially an all-day event that will require some careful planning in terms of nutrition, hydration and gear. Mount Evans Scenic Byway [CLOSED] is a 30.8 mile point-to-point trail located near Evergreen, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. “Unlike some high mountain passes, it’s a dead-end road. Note: Photos are to be used only to promote Colorado as a leisure destination or in a news story. Bring extra water and food. Evans Hill climb is an iconic bicycle race that takes place on the highest paved road in North America. There is a fee of 3 USD if you pass the entrance at about km 21,5 km, at 25 km from the top. Officials urge all Mount Evans visitors to follow state and … On road/gravel bikes, it us took a little more than two hours to pedal the 14.5 miles and nearly 4,000 feet up to the summit from Echo Lake, and every second of it was breathtaking—in the most literal sense and in the best possible way. You don’t want to get caught in heavy weather or lighting up here.  Remember, you are above treeline and are now one of the taller objects around .  Also, it’s likely to be 10-20 degrees cooler and if precipitation falls, it will most likely be sleet, freezing rain, or snow: Even in July and August.Â. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway, just 60 miles west of Denver, is the highest paved road in North America. Even July and August. For those of you that are looking for a longer and more challenging ride than just scaling Mt. The Bob Cook Memorial Mount Evans Hill Climb or Mount Evans Hill Climb is a bicycle race situated on Mount Evans near Idaho Springs, Colorado.Begun in 1962, the race has been held every year since except for three cancellations. Almost a century on, it’s a playground for cyclists, hikers, and, well, cars. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, typically more than 200,000 people travel to the top of the highest paved road in North America, and most of them get there by car. Evans. I had a pack on my back with a 3-quart water bladder, warm clothes and tennis shoes for the top, food for lunch, etc. 1675 Larimer St. At just over mile 5 the grade eases slightly as you follow the road to the left and come face to face with 13.3K foot Rogers Peak.  You are now over 12,500 feet and Lincoln Lake is 1,000 feet below you to the left.Â. At Summit Lake, you’ll find a parking lot and a small shelter.  No services are here, just a lot of people in cars shaking their heads in wonderment at seeing people on bikes at 13K.  From here, you have five miles, 15 switchbacks, and 1,300 feet of climbing left.  If you thought the first nine miles were work, you have not seen anything yet, cycling this high is like nothing you ever experienced before and the lack of oxygen is foremost on your mind. The vistas, mountains, and general scenery are beyond compare.  Wildlife is abundant and it’s not unusual to see mountain goats and other furry critters (almost ran over a family of mountain goats flying down this road the last time I was there).  This, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Grand Meas are the three “must-do” climbs in Colorado. Mount Evans Road is now fully open up to the summit. We saw herds of mountain goats—some staring us down in the middle of the road—marmots scurrying over rocks, and even fuzzy-antlered elk along the way. However, with recent winter weather and chilly temperatures at the summit, Armstrong urges extra caution. Summit Parking. It’s a narrow summit. Summit open Memorial Day through Labor Day only. Nope. The Mount Evans hill climb is a Colorado classic that every cyclist must check off the list. It's so close, yet so far. The best time to travel the byway is during weekdays and mornings. I made the trip with my incredibly fit, high-country mountain biking buddy Amy on August 27. Dogs are also able to use this trail. Storms build all day. Suite 675 Traffic is mild for the entire climb on Mt. I notice the altitude almost immediately, barely a kilometre after clipping in and setting off. Access is based on fees. For the latest information about the road visit http:// www.coloradodot.info / Congratulation! The Mount Evans Highway from Echo Lake to the summit will not open for motorized traffic this summer. In 1981, it was renamed in honor of five-time race winner Bob Cook, who died of cancer at the age of 23. The Bob Cook Memorial Mt. We only saw about 25 people all day—a mix of hikers and cyclists of every variety. Mount Evans Scenic Byway. “It had to do with both the safety of the public and long-term viability of the recreation area,” says Reid Armstrong of the U.S. Forest Service. Of course, we’ve heard the opposite, too … motorists upset they couldn’t drive up this summer.”. Evans. Is it open? We couldn't make it all the way to Mount Evans because that part of the road was closed in October but we made it to echo lake and it was truly beautiful. On Monday, June 4th, 2018, I descended from 14,130 feet in Colorado to set the fastest known time down Mt. Evans and makes a nice end-to-end roughly 80 mile ride starting in Evergreen and ending in Idaho Springs with a side trip up Mt. Evans.  Most of your climbing will be on the south face.  The road departs to the southeast and just starts to climb.  The grade is close to 6% here with slightly higher grades around the switchbacks.  You’ll find the first set just past mile 10.   If you look up 250 feet, you’ll see the road above you, but it will take more than a mile and a half to get there. This road is not for the faint of heart, as it remains very narrow and runs along the sheer drop edges with no guardrails in sight. I reached the 14,130-foot summit solely by my own power, taking advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pedal up the mountain on two wheels, without dodging the influx of cars that usually crowd the road during the summer months. NO MOTORIZED VEHICLES OF ANY KIND ARE PERMITTED. You can do it on your own, or as part of an organized Gran Fondo or road … While the road doesn’t officially close to foot or bike traffic, after enough snow falls, it becomes progressively dangerous and then impassable. All the other cyclists on the road just had cycling gear and 2 water bottles which they refilled at Echo Lake. People have been really grateful for that opportunity. Mt. Carry rain and cold weather gear. The drive there was also a sight to see and there are a couple of "stops" on the way up where you can park and take pictures on the side of the road. At the summit, you will find the remains of a old observatory and a footpath leading over a pile of rocks if you want to walk still higher.  The views are stunning and you are on the highest paved road in the country.  You are now in elite company as most people in the world would never attempt to do what you just did. Just don’t forget your layers. It was going to be an abbreviated season since we didn’t open until July. On road/gravel bikes, it us took a little more than two hours to pedal the 14.5 miles and nearly 4,000 feet up to the summit from Echo Lake, and every second of it was breathtaking—in the most literal sense and in the best possible way. In the typical year, more than 200,000 people travel up Mount Evans Road to the summit, with the route being considered the highest paved road in North America. Despite the physical demands of this ride, the trip is awesome. In 1917, Denver’s then mayor, Robert Speer, managed to gain support to build the road to the top of Mount Evans. Ten years later, the road was completed. The Mount Evans climb passes the 4,000 meter level and is therewith the highest paved road in the United Stats. Where is it? make sure you have trained for a ride like this. The road to the top of Mt. Pilots have to wear oxygen masks over 10K in non-pressurized cabins for a reason... a reason you will find out as you move on. From Idaho Springs, it’s 28 miles and about 6,400 feet of climbing to the top.  The grades are about the same as from Evergreen (6% range) except right up to Echo Lake, where they approach 10% for a short time. In order to run safely with COVID measures, we’d run at a deficit.”. In a … Mt. The Mount Evans Road (Colorado 5) is closed for the 2011 season, but you can still hike and (pedal) bike it up as far as you want to go. Evans Road. This is a 14k high elevation ride. It's actually a fantastic ride down into Idaho Springs from Mt. “We’ve been hearing a lot from the non-motorized community enjoying the experience this year,” says Armstrong. Evans Road Entrance Sign. Those who want to take advantage of the carless road are in for an unforgettable experience. Get an early start (as in 7AM). But the incredible views that open up from the high vantage point here are more than worth it. CLEAR CREEK COUNTY, Colo. — The highest paved road in North America, Mount Evans Highway (Colorado Highway 5), will not open to vehicles for the 2020 season. I didn’t know that bicycles could pass on it, and so I certainly never counted it the type of adventure that could had in a single summer day. If riding pre or post season, you are on your own. The trail is primarily used for bird watching and scenic driving and is accessible year-round. Watch for signs of altitude sickness. Evans, starting points in Evergreen, Bergen Park, and Fillius Park, east of Mt Evans, will add rides over Squaw and Juniper Passes. Could we manage those visitor centers safely in the COVID environment? Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities. There are no services past Echo Lake. The road is open roughly Memorial Day through Labor Day, so plan your trip accordingly. Motorists will get their chance again next year; the road is scheduled to reopen again by Memorial Day 2021. Evans, starting points in Evergreen, Bergen Park, and Fillius Park, east of Mt Evans, will add rides over Squaw and Juniper Passes.  This will add 20 to 30 miles, based on where you start and will add roughly 3,000 feet of climbing to the ride.  I rode once from Evergreen to Mt Evans, the operative word here is once, and found it an incredibly challenging and rewarding ride.  It’s a relentless climb, and going over Juniper and Squaw Passes do not give much of a break to climbing.  In fact, the only downhill is a short ride  into Echo Lake. Sign up for Strava to save this route and share it with your friends. Area Status: Closed The Mount Evans Scenic Byway climbs over 7,000 feet in its 28-mile length, reaching an altitude of 14,130' feet. There were the hardcore, Lycra-wearing type—many of whom had started their trek from Idaho Springs, making the ride 28 miles each way and 6,500 feet of climbing—slow and steady cyclists who make the trip an annual pilgrimage, bucket-listers on dilapidated, old mountain bikes, and flatlanders using their handlebars like walkers for the last two miles. “We’ve heard really good feedback. For information, call the USFS Park Ranger at the Idaho Springs Visitor Center at 303-567-4382. Make sure someone knows where you are. All pages Copyright©2007-2009 Mark Andrysiak- Sale, Distribution, or any use other than personal without written consent is strictly prohibited.  You may copy and download PDF files for personal use only. On Tuesday only part of the road was open until Summit Lake. After that the line to pay ($15 USD to top without National Park Pass). They cannot be used to promote individual, for-profit businesses or sold or used in a photo project that is … Depending on when the next snowstorm rolls through, your days to slog to the top of America’s highest paved road sans cars are limited. Do not be fooled, in any way shape or form, by the benign looking profile.  The grade may only average in the 5.5% to 6% range, but climbs over 12,000 feet are nothing like climbs under 12,000 feet.  The air over 12K is very thin and you will find yourself easily winded.  This will add 20 to 30 miles, based on where you start and will add roughly 3,000 feet of climbing to the ride. It will literally challenge body, mind and spirit. I didn’t know that the Mt. If you usually ride skinnies, it might be a good idea to opt for nubby tires for this trek—you can especially feel every bump in the road on the way down. The start point in Idaho Springs is about 45 minutes east of Summit County, but if you fancy yourself a climber, this and Pikes Peak are the "Big Kahunas” for cycling in Colorado. Echo Lake Park to the Mount Evans … The Mount Evans is situated in Colorado, about 50 km (30 miles) to the west of Denver, the mile high city. But where humans were lacking, the wildlife was plentiful. The Mount Evans Road and Scenic Byway (Colorado Highway 5) is typically open the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day depending on weather conditions. Mt. Evans Cycles – Online Bike Shop & Stores Nationwide. Watch for ice, sand, gravel, and wildlife on road. Evans’ Scenic Byway (at 14,265 feet) is the highest paved road in the U.S. Evans Road (14 miles) and the roadway surface good, although a little rough for the five mile descent from the top to Summit Lake. The road and access to the top of Mount Evans is closed at Summit Lake the day after Labor Day. They do take credit cards, but that line is slower. The switchback at mile 12.75 is spectacular.  You’re at 13,700 feet and looking west.  Abyss Lake is 1,100 feet below you and the Sawtooth Range is flanking the lake.  From here, you can see your objective a bit more than a mile and six switchbacks away. Why Did Palantir Technologies Move Its Headquarters From Silicon Valley to Denver? Although Mt. The eaiser grade, however, is short lived and you immediately return to a moderate climb up to just shy of 13K at mile 8.5.  Get ready for your only break in the climb, as, from here, you have a shallow three quarter mile descent down to 12.8K at Summit Lake.  Don’t blink, or you’ll miss the downhill, and if you have a headwind, you might not notice it at all.  As it turns out, it actually is a nice short rest and you don’t Loose too much altitude. 5280 Publishing, Inc. There is a per-vehicle amenity recreation fee to enter Summit Lake Park, as well as to park at Mount Goliath Natural Area and the Summit of Mount Evans Interpretive site. The road, which travels to the summit of the 14,265’ peak, will be open to bicyclists and hikers. Absolutely Stunning! The highway surface is a smooth two lane road with no bike lane, but minimal traffic, particularly along the last several miles before the Mt Evans Road turn off. There’s something truly surreal about riding an expanse of pavement above treeline—your destination looming ahead as the shadowed, lower peaks fade away below. It has a maximum elevation gain of 2,069 meters. Snow plows are ... you can bike or hike portions of the road. For those of you that are looking for a longer and more challenging ride than just scaling Mt. With warm weather in the forecast, cyclists still have time to make the journey. You could tell this was my first bike ride up Mt Evans. Or you can ride your pony. Denver, CO 80202. Enjoy flying up hills? It was so quiet on the road that the only sound was our tires rolling over the (many) cracks in the asphalt. Evans is open for the season. 5280 has a newsletter for everyone. Dubbed the highest paved road in North America, the Mount Evans Highway attracts more than 200,000 people from all over the world when it opens during the summer. Idaho Springs serves as the starting point to the byway. I’ve started the ride for this report at the Echo Lake fee station.  The roads are open when the snow clears in early June and typically stay open until Labor Day.  You can ride for free before and after this time, up to the snow line, but you will be totally on your own.  Use common sense if you ride in the off season.Â, The climb starts immediately, you hit your first switchback a mere quarter mile into the ride and this is just a taste of what is to come.  Three and a half miles, 1,000 feet higher and four switchbacks later, you are rewarded with a stunning vista overlooking Echo Lake, Goliath Peak (12.2K) is to your left. However, before you leave the shelter, take time to check the weather. Evans has loomed over me my entire life—it’s the closest of Colorado’s 58 fourteeners to Denver—I had never ascended the peak until a couple weeks ago, before the early season storm blanketed much of the state in snow. Evans is a 27.6 mi Road Cycling Route created by Peter Koch on April 30, 2015. In the meantime, cyclists should embrace this opportunity to have the highest road in America all to themselves. Olympic medalist and seven-time Tour de France rider Ron Kiefel has ridden Mt. Mount Evans Road is the highest paved road in all of North America, and it will take you to over 14,130 feet of elevation. The trip down will be fast.  Watch your speed on the switchbacks.  The last time I rode this , I almost took out a family mountain goats loitering just beyond a blind curve.  I’m not sure who was more surprised, them or me. The Mount Evans Road will reopen on May 25, 2012. You are higher than you biked before. However, this summer, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), in conjunction with the U.S. Forest Service and Denver Mountain Parks closed the paved road to motorized traffic to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 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