At A Glance
Months:
May - Oct
Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway
Immerse yourself in the snow-streaked peaks and panoramic vistas of Colorado’s rugged mountains with a drive along the Top of the Rockies scenic byway near Vail. Travel with loved ones and create special moments as you take turns spotting million-dollar views or revel in glimpses of soaring eagles, bugling elk and high-climbing bighorn sheep. Plus, make our villages your basecamp to enjoy family-friendly activities before and after your journey.
Why Cruise a Colorado Scenic Byway?
A scenic drive in Colorado is a fantastic way to take your local exploration to the next level. Feel the thrill of adventure as you traverse unfamiliar terrain with stretches of thick aspen and pine forests, deep verdant valleys, tranquil lakes and — of course — closeup views of the glorious, towering peaks surrounding Vail. These stunning landscapes create endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos and breathtaking backdrops for selfies and family pictures. Along the way, you’ll also see plenty of native animals (always be sure to respect the wildlife you see and give them space).
Byway exploring is also a great activity for the whole family to do together. Reconnect and reminisce over past vacations, discover delightful detours or start group sing-a-longs as the wind blows through the windows. Then, end your day around a table or lounging by a hotel pool back in Vail and recount your favorite moments from your journey.
Make Vail Your Home Base
With pedestrian-friendly streets, European-style villages and activities to suit any vibe, Vail is the ideal place to start and end your byway fun. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in everything from hiking and biking to horseback riding. Meanwhile, those who prefer the in-town scene can check out boutique shops, international cuisine and rejuvenating spas — all within easy reach of numerous lodging options. There’s also a continuous lineup of concerts, farmers’ markets and special events, especially in the summer and fall, so there’s always something to do in Vail.
Can’t-Miss Landmarks & Pit Stops Along Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway
Starting in Vail, motor along winding mountain roads to Leadville, where the byway divides and you can adapt your driving route to your preferences. Opt for a shorter trip and head to Copper Mountain or savor additional views with a longer drive over Independence Pass before heading back to Vail. See a more detailed map of the byway route here.
Vail to Leadville
As you begin your drive, you’ll pass the dramatic valleys and tree-peppered slopes of the White River National Forest. For an additional wow factor, return in autumn during leaf-peeping season when shimmering aspens create a sea of golden leaves. The first stop on your Top of the Rockies trip is Minturn, less than 10 miles from Vail. A former railroad town, Minturn is now a quaint mountain destination set along the rushing Eagle River. Check out the bike park and nearby hiking paths, like Grouse Lake Trail, to stretch your legs before your next section of road. Near Red Cliff, the Green Bridge Overlook is a must-stop for sweeping vistas of the expansive canyon, the Eagle River flowing below and the arched bridge crossing them. Around here you’ll also spot Vail’s closest 14er peak, Mount of the Holy Cross.
At the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument, see where World War II soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division trained for harsh winter conditions. Though there are no buildings to investigate, you can stretch your legs on a self-guided tour around Camp Hale featuring 10 interpretive signs with information about each stop.
While meandering along the Tennessee Pass, don’t miss your chance to snag a group photo or selfie at 10,424 feet with the Tennessee Pass/Continental Divide/10th Mountain Division Memorial sign. Then, get out in nature on a side excursion with a trek along the Colorado Trail.
As you near Leadville, be on the lookout for the five peaks towering above the rest at over 14,000 feet. They include: Mount Bross (14,178 feet), Mount Democrat (14,152 feet), Mount Elbert (14,438 feet), Mount Massive (14,424 feet) and Mount Sherman (14,040 feet).
Return to Vail Sooner: Leadville to Copper Mountain
This shorter route offers plenty of stunning mountain sights, especially through the high-elevation Fremont Pass (11,318 feet), which follows a portion of the East Fork Arkansas River. Indulge in another memorable pit stop and explore part of the out-and-back Mayflower Gulch Grand Traverse Trail — a popular and dog-friendly hike (on-leash of course!) with spectacular panoramas. Then, enjoy the last stretch of scenic road to Copper Mountain, before heading back to Vail for a well-deserved meal on a sunny patio.
Extend Your Drive: Leadville to Independence Pass
Tucked in the San Isabel National Forest, south of Leadville, Twin Lakes Reservoir offers miles of blue waters for paddling, rocky shores for casting a line and lakeside trails for a refreshing hike. With its jaw-dropping beauty — not to mention the sky-tickling Mount Elbert (Colorado’s tallest peak) rising behind it — the reservoir is the perfect spot for a picturesque picnic or photo opp.
As you drive over Independence Pass, which tops out at 12,095 feet, you’ll be met with sweeping scenes of snow-strewn peaks, including another Colorado 14er La Plata Peak (14,434 feet), and expansive valleys that seem to go on forever. Stop at the pulloff spot and walk to the pass overlook to fully appreciate your majestic surroundings. From here, you can backtrack to Vail where a cozy hotel room and delicious restaurants await.
Know Before You Go
- Get an early start on your journey with breakfast and java to-go from a local coffee shop.
- RVs and other vehicles over 35 feet are not allowed along Independence Pass.
- Mountain road trips are best planned for warmer months when there are fewer chances of road closures. For example, Independence Pass is closed all winter.
- Weather can change as you traverse high elevations, so bring extra comfy layers to make the most of any side trips you add.
- Flying into Vail? While you won’t need a car to get around the villages, you can certainly rent one for a day of scenic driving from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) or Vail Rental Car.
