Peak to Peak is in north-central Colorado about 30 miles west of Denver. The byway's northern terminus is in Estes Park. It travels south through Roosevelt National Forest and ends at the junction with US 6. The byway follows CO 7, CO 72, and CO 119; all are two-lane paved roads suitable for all types of vehicles. Peak to Peak is 60 miles long and usually remains open year-round. Delays are possible during winter for snow removal.

Views of the snow-capped Continental Divide and high mountain valleys are offered to travelers along this route. Relics from the late 1800s mining boom days are scattered throughout the area. Central City and Blackhawk are two examples of the history of the area. These communities were established in the late 1800s as mining towns and are now historical districts with much of that period's architecture preserved. Today, within these structures of historical architecture, one will find casino-style gambling establishments.

Just a short drive west of Nederland takes you to the ghost town of Caribou. The mines here produced an estimated eight million dollars worth of silver, making it one of Colorado's greatest silver mines. Silver bricks from Caribou were laid in a side-walk in Central City for a visit by Ulysses S. Grant in 1872. When the bottom fell out of the silver market in 1893, Caribou was left to become a ghost town.

In the charming mountain village of Estes Park you'll find the historic Stanley Hotel, built in 1909 by F.O. Stanley. Mr. Stanley would transport guests from the Lyons rail station in Stanley Steamers along the very roads now known as the Peak To Peak scenic byway.

Information: Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests, 240 W Prospect Rd, Fort Collins CO 80526 / 970-498-2770. Rocky Mountain National Park, 1000 W US Hwy 36, Estes Park CO 80517 / 970-586-1206. Golden Gate Canyon State Park, 3873 Hwy 46, Golden CO 80403 / 303-582-3707