From Denver: Trip to Mount Blue Sky Summit and Glacial Lake

If you’re eyeing a scenic escape from Denver that combines mountain adventure, wildlife spotting, and a taste of Colorado’s old-west history, this tour to Mount Blue Sky and its surrounding highlights could be just what you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve studied the details and reviews closely, and it sounds like a well-rounded way to experience Colorado’s stunning high country—especially if you’re craving breathtaking views and a manageable day trip.

What really draws us to this tour are the spectacular vistas from the highest paved road in North America and the chance to stand atop a 14,265-foot mountain. Plus, the inclusion of visiting two glacial lakes and a historic gold mining town adds a little variety that makes the day feel packed but not rushed. That said, it’s important to note that the tour can be quite quick—some travelers have mentioned feeling rushed, especially with limited time at the summit. If you’re a detail-oriented traveler or want a more leisurely experience, this is something to keep in mind. This trip is probably best suited for those who love natural beauty, don’t mind a bit of altitude, and enjoy learning about Colorado’s rugged history.

Key Points

• Stunning scenic drive up to the summit on the highest paved road in North America.
• Opportunities for wildlife sightings including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots.
• Visit two glacial lakes with short walks that provide perfect photo moments.
• Well-organized itinerary with included water and snacks, though the lunch is on your own.
• Small group setting with a maximum of 12 participants for a more personal experience.
• Potential for a rushed feeling, especially at the summit and during the time allocated at Idaho Springs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Denver to the Rockies

Your adventure kicks off at Denver’s Union Station, the city’s historic hub, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The drive into the Rockies is a highlight all on its own, offering sweeping mountain views and the anticipation of reaching some of Colorado’s highest accessible points. The small-group nature means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide is likely to be the key to making the most of your day with insights into the landscape and wildlife.

The first notable stops are the two glacial lakes—Echo Lake at 10,600 feet and Summit Lake at 12,800 feet. These lakes aren’t just pretty; they’re windows into the geological past, formed by glaciers over thousands of years. The short walks here are perfect for stretching your legs and snapping photos, with options to explore further if you’re feeling energetic.

Climbing to the Top: Mount Blue Sky Summit

The main event is the drive up to Mount Blue Sky’s summit at 14,265 feet—the highest paved road in North America. The journey is a thrill, with hairpin turns and panoramic vistas unfolding at every bend. We loved the way the guide navigated the tricky parts of the road, especially the famous “OMG road” mentioned in review comments. If you’re comfortable with narrow, winding mountain roads, you’ll appreciate the adventure; if not, just know this stretch is part of the experience.

Once you reach the parking lot, there’s an optional short walk to the actual summit. This is where the views really shine—360-degree panoramas of rugged peaks, wildflowers, and pristine wilderness. Wildlife encounters are common here: mountain goats, marmots, and big horn sheep are often spotted along the way, adding an extra layer of excitement.

The guide’s role in spotting and explaining wildlife is often praised. As one reviewer put it, the guide “masterfully navigated the real OMG road,” and was great at pointing out animals along the way. If you’re lucky, you might even meet a mountain goat up close—a memorable highlight.

A Taste of Colorado History: Idaho Springs

After soaking in the summit scenery, the tour continues to Idaho Springs, a town steeped in Colorado’s gold rush past. Here, you have some free time to explore the historic streets, do some shopping, or grab lunch on your own. The town’s old-west charm offers a glimpse into Colorado’s rugged past, and many travelers enjoy wandering the shops or sitting in a local café.

A few reviews mentioned the 90-minute stop felt a bit long. Some found that this time could be better spent at the summit, especially since the summit is only open for a limited season. If you’re someone who loves to linger in historic towns, this part of the tour will be right up your alley. Otherwise, keep in mind that it’s a quick stroll and some light browsing.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip. The transportation is in a comfortable Ford van, which is perfect for navigating mountain roads—small enough to handle tight turns but roomy enough for a relaxed ride. Water refills and snacks are included, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty.

Price-wise, at $129 per person, this tour offers good value considering the sights and the guide’s expertise. However, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that either in Idaho Springs or bring snacks for the road. Given the scenic value and the focus on natural beauty and wildlife, many find the cost worthwhile.

Group size is capped at 12, which tends to create a more intimate experience and allows for more personalized attention from your guide. This is especially helpful if you’re interested in wildlife spotting or have specific questions about the area.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys mountain scenery, wildlife, and a taste of Colorado’s history, this trip hits all those marks. It’s great for travelers who want a structured, guided experience but still love feeling close to nature. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with moderate altitude and narrow mountain roads.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. The reviews reflect that some guests would have liked more time at the summit and less at Idaho Springs. Also, this isn’t ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with altitude sickness, as the high elevations can be challenging.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a compelling way to see some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery in a single day. The highlights—mountain summit views, wildflowers, wildlife, and a historic town—are all genuinely impressive. The guide’s knowledge and the small-group setting help make the experience more engaging and intimate.

While some guests found the pace a bit brisk, if you’re prepared for a busy day and eager to tick off multiple highlights in one trip, you’ll likely find it rewarding. The cost seems reasonable for the level of access and the memorable sights you’ll witness.

If you’re visiting Denver and want to see what Colorado’s high peaks and wilderness are all about, this tour can be a solid choice, especially if you’re okay with a quick, scenic adventure rather than a slow, in-depth exploration.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 years old, mainly because of the high altitude and the nature of the drive. Plus, the activity involves some walking and mountain roads that aren’t stroller-friendly.

How physically demanding is the walk to the summit?
The walk from the parking lot to the summit is optional and relatively short. The main ascent involves driving, but the walking might be manageable for most people in good health, provided they’re comfortable at high elevation.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, rain gear just in case, and a reusable water bottle. The high altitude and variable weather mean you should be prepared for different conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some flexibility if your trip plans aren’t set in stone.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time in Idaho Springs to eat or explore, so plan accordingly.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
This experience is only available during the summer months—about three short months—due to snow and road conditions. Check availability ahead of time.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into Colorado’s mountainous beauty, wildlife, and history. It’s ideal for travelers who value scenery and natural encounters but don’t mind a packed schedule. If you love a good mountain adventure and want to avoid the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this guided trip could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: