Guanella Pass Road leapfrogs the steep divide between the South Platte and Clear Creek watersheds, passing through a succession of distinct environments. Thick stands of spruce, fir, aspen, and pine rise along cascading creeks in the lower elevations. Higher up, the streams snake through broad meadows. The road crests well above the timberline, where every spring the fragile tundra thaws and blossoms. This region, once providing work for miners and trappers, now attracts history enthusiasts and nature and recreation seekers.
Georgetown found its way onto the map as a mining camp. Victorian homes and structures still stand today in this National Historic Landmark District. Take a tour through the Bowman-White House, the Georgetown Energy Museum, and the Hamill House Museum for a glimpse into the past. Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad through Clear Creek County and over Devil's Gate Bridge to tour the Lebanon Silver Mine for a snapshot of the region’s economic history.
South of Georgetown, a world of recreation awaits. Guanella Pass Summit and Mount Evans Wilderness Area both lay within the boundaries of the Arapaho and Pike National Forests. Guanella Pass Summit is one of the byway's recreational playgrounds. Hiking trails lead you up great mountains, promising exhilarating climbing and cross-country skiing. The summit also displays a variety of alpine life, including ptarmigan populations. Set aside a day and ascend either Square Top Mountain or Mount Bierstadt. From there, hike the Scott Gomer Trail into the Mount Evans Wilderness Area to see more wildlife, including Bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, and more. For recreation, over 67 miles of trails, ranging from easy to expert, offer hiking, backpacking, four wheeling, and horseback riding.
Travelling between three 14,000-foot Rocky Mountain peaks, Guanella Pass Road demonstrates a multifaceted splendor. Whether you learn about the history of the region in Georgetown or dabble in nature and recreation at Guanella Pass Summit and Mount Evans Wilderness, the byway's multiplicity will leave you satisfied.
