How to drive the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway
The Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway is a designated National Scenic Byway and Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It spans approximately 115 miles (185 kilometers) through Lake, Eagle, Pitkin, and Summit Counties.
Why Is It Called the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway?
The byway is named "Top of the Rockies" due to its high elevation, with much of the drive above 9,000 feet (2,743 meters). At this elevation it is one of the highest continuous roadways in the region.
Where Does the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway Start and End?
The byway begins in Aspen, traveling east on Colorado State Highway 82 (SH 82) over Independence Pass, near Twin Lakes, and ending just north of Granite. From there, it continues along U.S. Highway 24 (US 24) through Leadville and ends at Interstate 70 (I-70) near Minturn. A spur route extends north from Leadville over Fremont Pass to Copper Mountain, creating a loop. The route crosses the Continental Divide twice—once at Independence Pass and again at Fremont Pass. Additionally, the byway follows the path of the Arkansas River.
Is the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway Paved?
The entire route of the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway is a paved, two-lane highway.
What Mountain Passes and Peaks Can Be Found on the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway?
The byway traverses three major mountain passes:
- Independence Pass (12,095 feet/3,687 meters), a crossing of the Continental Divide.
- Fremont Pass (11,318 feet/3,450 meters).
- Tennessee Pass (10,424 feet/3,177 meters).
Along the way, drivers can enjoy views of Mount Elbert (14,440 feet/4,401.2 meters) and Mount Massive (14,428 feet/4,398 meters), the two tallest peaks in the Rocky Mountains.
Is the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway Open Year-Round?
Most sections of the byway are open year-round. However, Independence Pass is typically closed from late October to late May due to snow and winter conditions. Other sections, such as Fremont Pass and Tennessee Pass, remain open year-round.
Does the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway Connect to Other Scenic Routes?
The Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway connects with the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway at the intersection of SH 82 and US 24.