Juniper Pass Climb South

The Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass Summit – Summit Lake loop from Evergreen offers a demanding yet incredibly rewarding road cycling experience through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. You'll climb through dense pine and aspen forests, passing the picturesque Echo Lake, before reaching high alpine environments with sweeping views of peaks like Mount Blue Sky. This difficult 58.1-mile (93.6 km) route features a substantial 7330 feet (2234 metres) of elevation gain, making it a serious workout that takes approximately 5 hours and 28 minutes to complete.

To make the most of this high-altitude adventure, plan your ride between late June and early October to avoid snow and muddy conditions on the passes. The route is popular with cyclists, so expect company, especially on weekends. While specific parking details for this loop aren't always consistent, you'll find various parking options available in the Evergreen area to start your journey.

This route is a key segment of the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, leading towards Summit Lake and offering a unique connection to Colorado's natural and cultural heritage. Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass, renamed in honor of a 19th-century Cheyenne translator, provides a historical context to your challenging ride. The sustained climbs and descents, coupled with dramatic mountain vistas, make this a standout option for experienced road cyclists in the region.