Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

The byway also passes a few of Colorado's ghost towns. Caribou used to be a silver camp but is deserted now. However, Nederland (the town that was established to supply Caribou) lives on. There are also many gold mines along Hwy 72 and 119. On the weekends, prospectors still pan for gold in the creeks, and there are a few gold mines along the way that allow the public to pan for the sparkling golden flakes. Visitors have to pay to pan, but children find it exciting and many times rewarding, making it worth the small fee.

In addition to the stunning mountain scenery, this byway also provides a unique close-up look at the Continental Divide. The area is filled with aspen trees, so in the fall it becomes a dazzling quilt of gold, yellow, orange, green and brown. The fall is also a wonderful time to visit the area, because it is elk mating season. Visitors flock to Estes Park to watch the mating rituals of the elk. Female and baby elk gather in a field as one male monopolizes his harem until he is challenged. The elk in this town have become so abundant that it is almost impossible to drive through Estes Park without seeing them - they almost seem to know the traffic laws!

Whether looking for a relaxing vacation or for adventure, there are activities for all kinds of people in this area. There is hiking, climbing, river rafting, ATVing, horseback riding, biking, fishing, hunting, bird watching, shopping, dining, camping and nearby skiing in Eldora Mountain Resort. For some Hollywood sightseeing, Estes Park is also home to the Stanley Hotel, Steven King's inspiration for his famous novel "The Shinning". The movie with Jack Nicolson and Shelley Duvall was shot in the Stanley Hotel.

Starting in Nederland, turn right on Hwy 72 on the way to Ward. The byway will take you to Estes Park.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

Allenspark Getaway
Along the Peak to Peak Scenic byway between Lyons and Estes Park, this cozy cabin has 2 bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, a picnic area with firepit and BBQ grill, plus plenty of watchable wildlife.

Allenspark Lodge
Authentic 1930's log lodge, 12-rooms, in Allenspark offering classic mountain breakfasts. Specializing in hiking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, quiet romantic getaways, small retreats, and scrap-booking.

Dory Hill Campground
Near the Peak to Peak Highway outside of Golden. 5 minutes to Central City/Black Hawk and 15 minutes off I-70, this scenic and quiet campground is a great retreat and close to Denver. WI-FI access!

Peak to Peak Lodge
Close to downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Heated outdoor pool and picnic area. Exceptionally clean rooms with air-conditioning. For families there are 2-room suites with kitchenettes.

Pine Grove Cabins
Rural setting close to Estes Park with modern family cabins & vacation homes near Rocky Mountain National Park in Allenspark. Discounted rates for stays of a week! Along the Peak to Peak Highway.

Pinebrook Vacation Rentals
At the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park, accommodating all tastes and budgets from cozy rustic cabins hidden in the pines to luxurious mountain homes with all the amenities. Some are pet friendly.

Range Property Management Vacation Rentals
Enjoy an upscale vacation home, condo or cabin that best meets your wishes for a special vacation in & around Estes Park. Sit back, relax, give us the pleasure of helping you enjoy where nature abounds.

Shelly's Cottages
Romantic year round mountain resort between Boulder and Estes Park. No children! No groups! No crowds! Relax in your private outdoor hot tub with the one you love. The perfect peaceful getaway.

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