Mount Blue Sky, Clear Creek Canyon & Red Rocks Park (Mount Evans)

Explore Denver’s Surroundings on a Scenic Day Trip to Mount Blue Sky and Red Rocks

This 8-hour small-group tour from Denver offers an exciting escape into the Rockies, with a price of $149 per person. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas, visit iconic landmarks like Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, and learn about the local wildlife and history through knowledgeable guides.

The tour includes all entrance fees and bottled water, making it a convenient choice for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience. The maximum group size of 14 travelers ensures a more personal atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to explore and take photos at each stop. With high praise from past participants, this trip suits those eager for a scenic adventure with engaging commentary and well-planned stops.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $149 for around 8 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Denver.
• Highlights: Visit Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Mount Blue Sky, Idaho Springs, Clear Creek Canyon, and Echo Lake.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, engaging, and entertaining.
• Scenic Stops: The tour includes several photo-worthy stops, such as Summit Lake, Echo Lake, and the historic town of Idaho Springs.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees and bottled water are covered, with optional lunch at Idaho Springs.
• Weather and Road Conditions: The tour might be canceled or modified due to weather or road closures, especially after the season’s top section of Mount Evans closes on September 7, 2024.

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from 1747 Wynkoop St, Denver, making it easy to access from the city center. The experience is limited to 14 travelers, providing an intimate atmosphere that allows for personalized attention and more comfort during the day.

Visiting Iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

The tour begins with a 40-minute stop at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a site famous for its natural acoustics and stunning red sandstone formations. Visitors can walk around the amphitheatre, taking in the views and snapping photos of the famous stage area, often used for concerts. The experience here is free, and this stop offers a great introduction to Colorado’s outdoor concert scene.

Scenic Drive Through Clear Creek Canyon

Next, the tour heads through Clear Creek Canyon, where a 15-minute stop provides a perfect photo opportunity. The scenic drive offers views of rugged cliffs and lush greenery, showcasing the natural beauty of this part of Colorado. The drive into Idaho Springs features a picturesque landscape, setting the stage for exploring the historic town.

Exploring Idaho Springs

A full hour is spent at Idaho Springs, a charming mountain town renowned for its mining history and vibrant local shops. Here, travelers can enjoy a leisurely lunch (not included) and wander through streets lined with historic buildings and boutique stores. The visit to Idaho Springs City Hall offers insight into the town’s past, adding a cultural touch to the day.

High-Altitude Adventure at Mount Blue Sky

The main highlight of the tour is reaching the summit of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans), which stands at 14,271 feet. The scenic Mount Evans Byway takes travelers to this extraordinary elevation, where a 25-minute stop allows visitors to marvel at the panoramic views over the Rockies. The guides often share interesting facts about the mountain’s geology, flora, and fauna.

Relaxing at Summit Lake Park

After the ascent, the tour makes a 25-minute stop at Summit Lake Park, a serene alpine lake offering reflective vistas and photo opportunities. The clear waters and mountain backdrop create a peaceful scene, perfect for a short walk or a moment to absorb the mountain atmosphere.

Final Stop at Echo Lake

Before returning to Denver, a 20-minute stop at Echo Lake Park provides a last chance to appreciate the mountain scenery and use the facilities. This spot is known for its stunning reflection of the surrounding peaks and is a favorite for capturing final photos of the day.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, and all entrance fees, ensuring a comfortable and straightforward experience. Travelers should bring a warm jacket and dress in layers due to the high elevations and potential weather changes. While lunch is not included, the stop at Idaho Springs offers options for a meal.

Weather Considerations and Road Closures

Part of the adventure involves driving along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, which is subject to seasonal road closures. The top section of the road typically closes after September 7, 2024, due to weather, limiting access to the summit. The lower section remains open until October 7, 2024, depending on conditions. The tour may be canceled or modified if weather impacts accessibility, with no refunds issued for weather-related cancellations.

Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability. They create a lively, informative atmosphere, making the scenery even more engaging. Past reviews highlight guides like Bernard and Jason for their funny, considerate, and informative approach, which enhances the enjoyment of the day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Since some stops are at high altitudes, avoiding alcohol 24 hours prior is recommended to prevent altitude sickness. The tour is suitable for most travelers aged 7 and up, though private tours are suggested for families with young children. Dressing in layers and bringing a warm jacket are advised, especially for the summit and mountain lakes.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $149, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of Denver’s mountain scenery, with multiple stops, small-group attention, and expert commentary. It is especially ideal for those wanting to see Mount Blue Sky, visit Red Rocks, and explore Idaho Springs in one day. While the timing of the road closure can influence the summit experience, the included stops and guided insights make this a worthwhile option for scenic Colorado exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including all stops and scenic drives.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a one-hour stop at Idaho Springs for dining and exploring.

What should I bring for the high-altitude stops?
Dressing in layers and bringing a warm jacket is essential, as temperatures drop at higher elevations.

Can children participate?
The tour is suitable for most travelers aged 7 and up, but private tours are recommended for families with younger children.

What happens if the road to Mount Evans is closed?
The tour may be canceled or modified due to weather or road closures, especially after the top section of the road closes seasonally.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, providing a more personal experience.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at Summit Lake, Echo Lake, and Red Rocks offer plenty of photo opportunities with stunning mountain scenery.