Connecting the cities of Estes Park (just east of Rocky Mountain National Park) to Central City near I-70, the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway highlights the peaks of Colorado's Front Range. Covering just over 55 miles, byway visitors are wowed by the area's autumn foliage, treated to the history of old mining towns, the Victorian architecture and exceptional views of Longs Peak. A few of the byway's ghost towns have been rejuvenated and continue to thrive. Nederland enjoyed its second wind during the beginning of the 20th century. Silver and tungsten were discovered and the population ebbed and flowed over the next century. Southward, Central City was founded in 1859 during the time of the Pikes Peak Gold Rush and became known as the Richest Square Mile on Earth. Dwindling to a few hundred people during the mid 20th century, casino gambling was introduced in the 1990s in hopes to compete with its sister-city, Black Hawk.
   Many old gold mines along CO-72 and 119 attract weekend prospectors who still pan for gold in mountain streams. There is also a ton of gold to be found during the autumn season when the mountainsides are ablaze in brilliant foliage. Immense aspen groves cover the mountainsides, turning into a seas of yellow during late September and early October. Dating back to 1918, Peak to Peak is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway and has been captivating travelers with its aspen-covered hills for over 100 years.

     Byway Map