Climbing more than 7,000′ in just 28 miles this scenic drive will amaze and awe even the most jaded of travelers. At the 14,264′ summit the entire front range of the Rocky Mountains lies at your feet!

In the rarified air above timberline an amazing world of hardy wildflowers, lichens, and grasses will be exposed to you. This lush carpet is forage for pika, marmots, and rock climbing Mountain Goats and Big Horn Sheep. High apline cirque lakes sit like jewels in a royal crown, amid the splendor of the Colorado Rockies.

Caution: The weather above timberline is volatile! One must be prepared for wind, rain, lightning, hail, and snow ANY TIME OF THE YEAR!

High altitude sickness is an ever present danger for those who haven’t had time to acclimate to the area. A recommended stay of at least 2 days at 5,000′ (Denver’s altitude is 5,280′), will attenuate the danger of hypoxia for the adventurous traveler on America’s highest road!

For more information contact: Clear Creek Ranger District, US Forest Service, P.O. Box 3307, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 or call (303) 567-2901.

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