Not all towns appear on map. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for accuracy or completeness of maps. This information was compiled as accurately as possible.
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 & Fun things to Do
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.
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.
The only log cabins in Estes Park all with woodburning fireplaces and lofts. Full kitchens, knotty pine interiors, cable TV. Riverside hot tub. 5 minutes to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park.
In Central City - a great family day trip. Dig your own high-grade gold ore to take home. Guides are actual hard-rock miners. The ground level is wheelchair accessible. Gold panning lessons free with your tour.
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.
CATCH GOLD FEVER at working gold mine -- as seen on the Discovery Channel! A short drive from Denver, in historic Idaho Springs mining district. A great day trip for folks with kids living in the Metro area.
Enjoy an upscale vacation home, condo or cabin that best meets your wishes for a special vacation in and around Estes Park. Sit back, relax, give us the pleasure of helping you enjoy where nature abounds.
More Activities & Information
Estes Park - includes Drake
Allenspark - includes Meeker Park & Raymond
Nederland - includes Eldora
Denver Mountain Area - includes Black Hawk, Central City, Empire, Evergreen, Genesee, Georgetown, Golden Mountains, Idaho Springs, Idledale & Morrison
Mount Evans Pawnee Pioneer Trail Peak to Peak Highway Pikes Peak Road
San Juan Skyway Santa Fe Trail Silver Thread Scenic Byway South Platte River Trail Top of the Rockies Trail of the Ancients Trail Ridge Road Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic Drive West Elk Scenic Loop




