3 Best Sights in Rockies Near Denver, Colorado

The incomparable Mt. Evans Scenic and Historic Byway—the highest paved road in the United States—leads to the summit of 14,264-foot-high Mt. Evans. This is one of only two Fourteeners in the United States that you can drive up (the other is her southern sister, Pikes Peak). More than 7,000 feet are climbed in 28 miles, and the road tops out at 14,134 feet, 130 feet shy of the summit, which is a ¼-mile stroll from the parking lot. The toll road winds past placid lakes and through stands of towering Douglas firs and bristlecone pines. Timed-entry reservations are now required and must be booked ahead online. This is one of the best places in the state to catch a glimpse of shaggy white mountain goats and regal bighorn sheep. Small herds of the nimble creatures stroll from car to car looking for handouts. Feeding them is prohibited, however. Keep your eyes peeled for other animals, including deer, elk, and feather-footed ptarmigans.

South of Georgetown, the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway treats you to marvelous views of the Mt. Evans Wilderness Area. Along the way—while negotiating some tight curves, especially as you head down to Grant—you'll get close views of Mt. Evans as well as Grays and Torrey's Peaks—two Fourteeners. It takes about 40 minutes to cross the 22-mile fully paved road.

Although most travelers heading to Central City take the new highway from I–70, adventurous souls can take the Oh-My-Gawd Road. Built in the 1870s to transfer ore, this challenging drive climbs nearly 2,000 feet above Idaho Springs to Central City. After traveling along a series of hairpin curves you arrive at the summit, where you are treated to sweeping views of Mt. Evans. The dusty road is often busy with mining traffic, so keep your windows up and your eyes open.