Take in Colorado’s best winter views on these stunning, scenic winter drives around the state.

1. Bear Lake Road

This 10.5-mile drive will take you up to Bear Lake at 9,475 ft., in Rocky Mountain National Park. When the lake freezes and snow falls, the area is a true winter wonderland. You can also explore the area by cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or tubing. The road is paved in the wintertime, and you’ll pass by Sprague Lake, hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

2. Pikes Peak Highway

This 19-mile paved road takes you to an elevation of over 14,000 feet and is conveniently located only 15 minutes west of Colorado Springs. You’ll experience stunning views and possibly even see some wildlife on this paved road. You can also stop at Crystal Reservoir and Devils Playground on your way up. Check information about hours and rates here.

3. Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway

You’ll be able to see several of Colorado’s iconic fourteeners and mountain peaks on this drive, including Mount Princeton, Mount Yale, and Mount Harvard. The 57-mile paved road runs along the Continental Divide and mostly follows the Arkansas River. The road begins in Granite, heads towards Salida, then loops back around to the original starting point.

4. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

Go from Rocky Mountain National Park to Central City, passing stunning mountains and charming towns. The 55-mile drive will take you past many popular Colorado attractions, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, and Eldora Ski Resort.

5. Cache la Poudre – North Park Scenic and Historic Byway

This route starts in Fort Collins, follows the Cache la Poudre River, connects to Cameron Pass, and eventually makes its way to Walden. This renowned Colorado drive is 101 miles long and features views of Colorado woods, snowy banks, and an icy river. You might also see some wildlife, including the bighorn sheep.

6. San Juan Scenic Byway

Travel through the snow-dusted San Juan mountains and encounter some of Colorado’s mountain towns, including Durango, Silverton, Telluride, and Ouray on this route. You can either complete the entire 236-mile drive or just do a section of it. The stretch from Silverton to Ouray is known as the “Million Dollar Highway,” and has breathtaking views.

8. Hoosier Pass

This high mountain pass reaches 11,541 feet, winding through the Rocky Mountains. The 2.8-mile route provides a route to Breckenridge and features views of the Mosquito Range, Mt. Lincoln, lakes, snowy trees, and more.