Mount Evans: Mt. Goliath Nature Center and Summit of Mt. Evans Interpretive Area Ticket
Mount Evans Recreation Area Timed Tickets
Provides access for one private vehicle and motorcycles to access Forest Service developed recreation sites. (Mount Goliath and the Summit Interpretive Area only).
Mount Goliath is a peak on the shoulders of Mount Evans. The Mount Goliath Research Natural Area contains 160 acres set aside for the protection, study, interpretation and enjoyment of the Rocky Mountain bristlecone pine. Stop and visit the gardens, Dos Chappell Nature Center and hike through the bristlecone pine. The building, exhibits, and grounds are the result of a cooperative effort between the Denver Botanic Gardens, Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, and the U.S. Forest Service.
For more information visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recarea/?recid=28418
For information on the exploration of the gardens with a Denver Botanic Gardens docent https://www.botanicgardens.org/other-locations/mount-goliath
Next drive to the Summit Interpretive Area also referred to "The Top" to experience the high altitude air at 14,130 feet and then hike up to the summit of Mount Evans. There are three significant structures at “The Top,” two of which are historic: the ruins of the Crest House, the High Altitude Lab and the Meyer-Womble Observatory.
For more information visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recreation/natureviewing/recarea/?recid=28452&actid=64
Mount Evans History visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5369984
The average time spent along the Scenic Drive is 2-3 hours.
This ticket is not available September 6 – October 2, 2022. Select the Mount Goliath and Summit Lake Park Ticket for a reservation after September 6, 2022.
Need to Know
- Reservation Details
There is NO reliable cell phone service in the area. Please purchase your reservation ahead of time, at home or before leaving the towns of Idaho Springs or Bergan Park.
The reservation for Mount Evans is for the reserved date and time listed on this ticket and for day use only.
A reservation for the 3-day ticket is valid for 3 days from time of entry date. Ticket must be validated the first day of the reservation.
- Entry Requirements
Print or download your reservation to your phone prior to leaving a near by town with cell service. There is NO cell service at the Welcome Station.
Be ready to present a printed or digital copy of reservation at the facility Welcome Station. If you have a printed ticket, please place on dash of vehicle; photo ID will be required.
- Pass Holders
Interagency pass holders are required to make an entry time reservation and the non-refundable $2.00 fee applies. This includes Interagency annual, senior, military volunteer, 4th grade passes and the Mount Evans season pass. Please be prepared to show your pass with your reservation ticket.
- Cancellations & Refunds
Cancellations must be made up to 24 hours in advance for refund minus $2 processing fee. No refunds for no shows or cancellations less than 24 hours in advance.
- Regulations
Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be sold, copied or auctioned.
Camping and campfires are not allowed within one-half mile of the Mount Evans corridor and the entire Summit Lake Flats.
Feeding or attracting wildlife is prohibited.
- Pets
Pets must be kept on a handheld leash at all times, and they cannot be kept in an unattended vehicle.
- Driving the Scenic Road
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway climbs more than 7,000 feet in just 28 miles, reaching an altitude of 14,130 feet. The views are breath taking, but the road is in poor condition and has no guardrails so be prepared for slow and possible difficult driving conditions. Also beware there are many bicyclists that cycle this road.
The maximum allowable length for vehicles is 30 feet due to the narrow steep and winding road. Motorhomes are not recommended.
- Weather/Hazards
Conditions can change quickly and drastically on Mount Evans. The road can close any day throughout the summer due to winter-like conditions.
Road damage near Summit Lake Park, Slow Down before approaching.
