Peak-To-Peak Scenic Byway This Is a Lovely Drive, Passing Interesting Sites and Places Along the Way
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RV Traveler's Roadmap to Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway This is a lovely drive, passing interesting sites and places along the way. Gravel roads crossing the main highway lead to ghost towns at Hesse and Apex; others lead to high country lakes. There are many aspen stands, so it is a golden marvel in the fall. From Estes Park to I-70, the Peak to Peak Highway is about a 3 hour drive. Established in 1918, this is Colorado's oldest scenic byway. 1 Highlights & Facts For The Ideal Experience Estes Cone and Longs Peak tower over Lily Lake Trip Length: Roughly 60 miles Best Time To Go: Year round Must See Nearby Attractions: The Oh My God Road (a narrow byway winding a tortuous course from Idaho Springs to Central City) Mt. Evans Byway (one of the highest paved roads in N. America, Idaho Springs) Eldora Mountain Resort (Eldora) Wild Bear Center (environmental education, Nederland) 2 Traveler's Notes Corona Lake on Rollins Pass in the Roosevelt National Forest. The Peak to Peak Highway is a designated Scenic Byway. It begins as CO Highway 7 in Estes Park,passes Lily Mountain and Twin Sisters, then turns south just past Allenspark on CO Highway 72, goes to Nederland where it continues south on CO Highway 119, through Blackhawk, through Clear Creek Canyon and down to I-70. The twin towns of Central City and Black Hawk are lined with Victorian- era buildings reminiscent of a time long past. Established in 1859 when John Gregory found gold in the nearby hills, Central City was known as “the richest square mile on earth”. Many are still seeking treasure in the plethora of casinos and gaming halls here. CO-119 travels alongside the Arapaho National Forest. This pristine natural area was established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt and named for the Native American tribe that hunted here. Partake in a wide range of activities such as fishing, kayaking, camping or mountain biking and hiking on 28 miles of trails. In winter enjoy snow- shoeing, snowmobiling and ice fishing. 3 What To See Along the Way Central City Scenic Overlook Roosevelt National Forest Longs Peak Trailhead Brainard Lake Rec Area Lily Lake Peaceful Valley Campground Estes Park 4 Facts & More Information To Plan Your Trip! Brainard Lake Recreation Area Central City: There are many summer and winter sport and outdoor activities to be enjoyed in and around Gilpin County. These include: cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snow-shoeing, sledding, fishing, kayaking, hunting, camping, back packing, four-wheeling, photography and, of course, gold panning. Numerous wildlife abounds throughout the area. Roosevelt National Forest: Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests & Pawnee National Grassland offers a diversity of outdoor opportunities and special places to explore. Brainard Lake Rec Area: Set in a glacially-carved valley and the high peaks of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area loom to the west. Peaceful Valley Campground: There are 17 sites that will accommodate tents, campers, trailers, and RVs. Tents must be confined to the provided 14' X 16' tent pad. Picnic tables, fire grates, water, vault toilets, and trash services are provided. Scenic Overlook: View verdant valleys, wooded ravines, willow thickets, and meandering creeks! Longs Peak Trailhead: At 14,259 feet, Longs Peak towers above all other summits in Rocky Mountain National Park. The flat-topped monarch is seen from almost anywhere in the park. Different angles show the great mountain's unique profiles. Lily Lake: To reach the trailhead from Estes Park, drive 6.3 miles south on Colorado Highway 7 to the Lily Lake parking area. Estes Park: It’s known as a base for the Rocky Mountain National Park, home to wildlife including elk and bears, plus miles of trails. Ready, set, go! Presented by: Great RV Escapes 7071 Warner Ave. Suite F120, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (888) 727.1118.