Echo Lake to Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit

No, the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (CO 5), which includes the section above Echo Lake, will be closed for the entire 2025 season. This closure is due to roadway construction and prohibits all motorized and non-motorized travel, including cycling. The road is currently scheduled to reopen on Memorial Day weekend 2026, pending weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Assuming the route is open (e.g., from Memorial Day weekend 2026 onwards), the best time to cycle is typically during the summer months, from late May or early June through early fall. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and strong winds at the summit, even in summer. Always check current conditions before you go.

This is classified as a "difficult" touring bicycle route, requiring very good fitness. You'll face a continuous and significant elevation gain of over 1,250 meters (approximately 4,200 feet) in about 48 kilometers (30 miles) to reach the summit. The high altitude, especially above 12,000 feet, makes the climb even more demanding, and sustained grades of 4-5% are common.

The route is primarily paved, but conditions can vary, especially at higher elevations. Be prepared for sections with "sketchy" pavement, "fairly nasty potholes," and numerous cracks and expansion joints. While some cyclists use road bikes, a gravel bike might offer a more comfortable ride. The road also narrows as it ascends, so exercise caution when sharing with vehicles.

The ride offers spectacular scenery, transitioning through multiple climate zones. You'll pass through open ponderosa and juniper hills, deep spruce forests, and eventually into a magnificent alpine and tundra environment above the treeline. There are breathtaking views of mountain lakes and alpine meadows, particularly around Summit Lake, as you climb towards the Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit.

Absolutely! Starting near Echo Lake Lodge, the route climbs past Summit Lake, offering stunning alpine views. The ultimate landmark is the Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit itself, which is the highest paved road in North America. The changing scenery above the treeline is a highlight in itself.

Yes, typically a timed entry reservation and/or fee is required for vehicle access to the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, which includes this cycling route. While cycling, you generally don't need a separate permit for the ride itself, but you should be aware of any fees or reservation systems for entering the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness area or accessing the road, especially after the 2025 closure. Check the official codot.gov website for the most current information: codot.gov.

While dogs are generally allowed in the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness, specific regulations apply, especially on paved roads and at developed sites. It's best to check with the U.S. Forest Service for current rules regarding dogs on the scenic byway and at the summit. Always keep dogs on a leash and pack out all waste.

Parking is available at Echo Lake. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended. Be aware that after the 2025 closure, there might be new reservation requirements for vehicle entry to the scenic byway, which could impact parking access.

As you ascend through different ecosystems, you have a good chance of spotting various wildlife. Keep an eye out for mountain goats and marmots, especially in the alpine and tundra environments above the treeline. You might also see deer, elk, and various bird species in the lower forested sections.

Given the significant elevation gain and high altitude, bring layers of clothing, including a windbreaker or warm jacket, even in summer. Temperatures at the summit can be significantly colder than at Echo Lake. Hydration is crucial, so carry plenty of water. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a helmet are also essential. Consider a bike with lower gearing for the steep climbs.

Yes, while primarily a paved road cycling route, it does briefly intersect or run parallel to several hiking trails within the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness. These include short sections of the Chicago Lakes Trail, Mount Evans Spur Road, Alpine Garden Loop Trail, Resthouse Meadows Trail, and the M. Walter Pesman Trail, among others.