South end: Summit of Mount Evans Counties: Clear Creek | North end: SH 103 at Echo Lake Length 23.96 km | |
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State Highway 5 in the U.S. state of Colorado is the highest paved road in North America. However, this is not a through highway; it is simply a scenic spur route to the summit of Mount Evans, altitude 14,264 feet (4,347 m). The southern terminus of State Highway 5 is at a parking lot somewhat below the actual summit.
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Map of Co Hwy 5, Chester, WV 26034, USA
Route description
Highway 5 is short, slightly less than 15 miles (24 km). It passes through the Mount Evans Wilderness. This particular state highway is quite unusual in that it does not pass through any cities, towns, or unincorporated communities.
The route is entirely contained within the county of Clear Creek. This highway forms half of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, running from the summit of Mount Evans to the junction with State Highway 103 at Echo Lake Park, about 13 miles (21 km) south of Idaho Springs, the nearest municipality to Highway 5.
Because of its mountainous route, State Highway 5 is closed seasonally when snow clearance becomes excessively difficult, usually from Labor Day to Memorial Day. During the warmer months the road is open 24 hours a day. A toll (or "park fee") is charged, though technically the toll is only necessary for the use of the parking lot at the summit. As a state highway, the road is open to the public and free to traverse out and back.
History
Sh 5's current routing up to Mount Evans was originally a part of State Highway 103; however, it was renumbered as State Highway 5 by year 1955.
Major intersections
The entire route is in Clear Creek County.