Mount Blue Sky: Summit Road, Glacial Lakes & Idaho Springs

Summit Mount Blue Sky, walk alpine lakes and old mining towns

You’ll climb from Denver into wild mountain air along Mount Blue Sky’s summit road, feeling every foot of altitude as you pass glacial lakes and spot bighorn sheep or mountain goats. Walk quiet alpine trails, then eat lunch among historic storefronts in Idaho Springs: returning with that high-altitude silence still ringing in your ears.

Step-by-step itinerary

Mount Blue Sky summit and Idaho Springs

• Begin tour downtown Denver
• Travel through Clear Creek Canyon
• Drive highest paved road in North America
• Visit Summit Lake at 10,600 feet
• Walk trail to overlook Chicago Lakes
• Reach 14,270 feet summit of Mount Blue Sky
• Stop in historic Idaho Springs for lunch
• Explore Idaho Springs shops and trails
• Return to downtown Denver

The Experience

I never thought I’d start my morning in Denver and end up above the clouds by lunchtime. The drive through Clear Creek Canyon was louder than I expected: windows down, you can actually hear the water smashing against rocks below. Our guide, Mark, kept pointing out these weirdly shaped pines clinging to the cliffs. He said they’re limber pines: looked like something out of a Dr. Seuss book if I’m honest. The air got colder fast as we climbed. I remember digging for my jacket and laughing because it was July.

We stopped at Summit Lake first (12,800 feet up), and I swear the wind there feels different. It’s sharp but clean, almost metallic? There were patches of snow even in summer and a couple of mountain goats just hanging around like they owned the place (which, fair enough). Mark told us to move slow because of the altitude. I tried to take a deep breath but it felt like sipping air through a straw. Someone behind me muttered about “earning your view” and yeah, that’s about right.

The last push up Mount Blue Sky was wild (the highest paved road in North America apparently), and when we finally got out at the top, everything was silent except for this low whistle from the wind. You could see forever: valleys stitched with green way below and clouds drifting past like you could touch them if you wanted. There were marmots too: one tried to steal someone’s granola bar (no shame). Lunch back in Idaho Springs felt surreal after all that. Suddenly you’re surrounded by old brick buildings and people chatting on Main Street like nothing happened. I still think about that view from the summit sometimes when things get noisy back home.

What’s included

• Your day covers transport from downtown Denver through Clear Creek Canyon into Mount Blue Sky wilderness with all entry fees included.
• a local driver-guide leads throughout.
• water refills are available (just bring your own bottle).
• plus time for lunch and exploring historic Idaho Springs before heading back down late afternoon.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by The Colorado Sightseer

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Top questions

How high is Mount Blue Sky?

The summit reaches 14,265 feet (4,348 meters) if weather allows access.

What wildlife might I see on Mount Blue Sky?

Bighorn sheep, mountain goats, marmots, and pika are often seen but not guaranteed.

How cold does it get at the top?

The average high temperature on top of Mount Blue Sky is about 40°F (4.4°C), even in summer.

Is lunch included on this tour?

You’ll have time for lunch in Idaho Springs but pay for your own meal.

Are there restroom stops along the way?

There are clean restrooms available at the Visitor Center in Idaho Springs.

Can everyone reach the summit?

Access to the summit depends on weather conditions. Some travelers may find altitude challenging.

Do I need to bring water?

Water refills are provided. Bring your own refillable bottle for use during the day.