The title of the highest road in North America goes to the Mount Evans Scenic
Byway in Colorado. Officially known as Colorado State Highway 5, it's a
breathtaking route that culminates at a dizzying altitude of 14,130 feet above
sea level.
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway begins at the junction of Interstate 70 and State
Highway 103 near Idaho Springs, and continues on State Highway 5 through the
Mount Evans Wilderness Area, all the way to the summit parking lot.
The drive is approximately 28 miles long, and the journey takes you through a
variety of ecosystems, from montane and subalpine to alpine. As you ascend, the
air gets thinner, the temperatures drop, and the landscape transforms from dense
pine forests to alpine tundra, home to unique high-altitude plant species.
Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains
and valleys. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Continental Divide.
The route also offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, including
mountain goats and bighorn sheep, which are frequently sighted along the
roadside.
Near the top, you can park your car and take a short hike to reach the true
summit. Here, you'll find the Meyer-Womble Observatory, one of the highest
astronomical observatories in the world.
It's important to note that the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is usually only open
from Memorial Day to Labor Day due to heavy winter snowfall at such high
elevations. Always check the current conditions and road status before you plan
your trip.
Driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is certainly a thrilling experience, but
it's not for the faint-hearted. The road is narrow and winding, with steep
drop-offs and no guardrails in places. However, for those who dare, it provides
an unparalleled opportunity to experience Colorado's high-altitude landscapes
and stunning views from the "roof of North America".
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey that reaches the heights of the
Rocky Mountains and beyond.
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