Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive - Image 1
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Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive Morrison to Evergreen Colorado

5
·5 reviews·, United States

A breathtaking mountain drive connecting Morrison and Evergreen, Colorado, offering stunning vistas and serene natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer cars, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive - Image 1

Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive Morrison to Evergreen Colorado

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer cars, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking mountain drive connecting Morrison and Evergreen, Colorado, offering stunning vistas and serene natural beauty.

5
(5 reviews)

"I Love this place!! I totally recommend it ❤️ Serene!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Avoid Rush Hour

Traffic can be heavy, especially towards Denver. Plan your drive outside peak commuting times for a smoother experience.

📸 Capture the Scenery

Pull over at designated scenic overlooks to safely enjoy and photograph the stunning mountain landscapes. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bear Creek Canyon Views

Bear Creek Canyon Views

Experience breathtaking mountain vistas and lush forest scenery along this picturesque route.

Evergreen Charm

Evergreen Charm

Explore the quaint mountain town of Evergreen, with its unique shops and local eateries.

Morrison's Red Rocks Proximity

Morrison's Red Rocks Proximity

Conveniently located near the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre for a potential combined trip.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Scenic Drive

The Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider an early morning or late afternoon drive to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Weekday mornings are often the least congested.

Commuting Considerations

While Google Maps suggests a 30-45 minute drive from Evergreen to Denver, this can vary significantly with traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. Factor in extra time if you're planning this as part of a daily commute.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer cars, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Best easy hike just 30 minutes from Denver! 📍Bear Creek Trail to the Castle - inside Lair o’ the Bear Park This out and back trail is just 2 miles with only 157ft of elevation gain. It goes along the creek, has lots of shade, and is very dog friendly! Something that makes it super unique is that it ends at a castle! Follow for more Colorado recommendations! #colorado #coloradohiking #coloradoh...
@vivafortravel
3.1K likes • 59.2K views

🚗 Avoid Rush Hour

Traffic can be heavy, especially towards Denver. Plan your drive outside peak commuting times for a smoother experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Pull over at designated scenic overlooks to safely enjoy and photograph the stunning mountain landscapes. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Looking for a nice mountain road to drive for car enthusiast near denver and colorado springs this april 17-20.

reddit.com

Best destination for night drive?

☕ Explore Local Towns

Take time to stop in Morrison or Evergreen for charming shops and local dining options. :forkandknifewithplate:

reddit.com

Denver commuting question - Is this drive manageable?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Avoid Rush Hour

Traffic can be heavy, especially towards Denver. Plan your drive outside peak commuting times for a smoother experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Pull over at designated scenic overlooks to safely enjoy and photograph the stunning mountain landscapes. :camerawithflash:

☕ Explore Local Towns

Take time to stop in Morrison or Evergreen for charming shops and local dining options. :forkandknifewithplate:

What Travellers Say

5
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive for its serene beauty and picturesque mountain views. The drive offers a peaceful escape and a chance to explore charming towns like Evergreen and Morrison. However, some travelers note that traffic, especially during commuting hours, can be a significant drawback.

"I Love this place!! I totally recommend it ❤️"

Adriana Márquez

""

Kevin Ford

"Serene!"

Erik Tarvainen

What People Like

Serene mountain views
Peaceful atmosphere
Charming towns

What People Dislike

Commuting traffic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The drive itself can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on how often you stop and traffic conditions. If you're commuting from Evergreen to Denver, expect 30-45 minutes without significant traffic, but always allow extra time during peak hours. Reddit

You can start the scenic drive from either Morrison or Evergreen. If coming from Denver, Morrison is typically the first town you'll encounter on the route. If coming from the west, Evergreen is a good starting point.

The road is generally well-maintained, but it is a mountain road with curves. Larger RVs might find some sections challenging. It's advisable to check current road conditions and be comfortable driving on winding mountain roads.

There are no specific entry fees for driving the Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive itself. However, if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Red Rocks Park, separate entrance fees may apply.

Yes, GPS is generally reliable for navigating the Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive. However, cell service can be spotty in some canyon areas, so downloading offline maps is a good precaution. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to simply drive the Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive. It's a public road accessible to all.

Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is a public road and is generally accessible 24/7. However, driving at night can be challenging due to the winding nature of the road and lack of lighting in some areas.

The primary restriction is weather. During winter months, the road can be subject to closures due to snow and ice. Always check local road conditions before you travel. Reddit

Yes, there are several pull-offs and trailheads along the route that allow for stopping and hiking. Be sure to stay on marked trails and be aware of your surroundings.

Most scenic overlooks along the drive are free to park at. However, some trailheads or park areas might have designated parking fees. It's best to check signage at each stop.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Many overlooks offer stunning views. Keep an eye out for signs indicating scenic viewpoints. The drive itself is the main attraction, with continuous beautiful scenery. Reddit

Restroom facilities are limited along the drive itself. You'll find more options in the towns of Morrison and Evergreen. Plan accordingly.

You might spot deer, elk, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife. Reddit

Absolutely! The changing light throughout the day, the mountain landscapes, and the lush forests make it a photographer's paradise. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light. :camerawithflash:

You can stop for short hikes, enjoy picnics at designated areas, or explore the towns of Morrison and Evergreen. Fishing is also possible in some parts of Bear Creek.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The towns of Morrison and Evergreen offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic overlook for a more intimate experience. :forkandknifewithplate:

There are very few, if any, dining establishments directly on the scenic drive itself. It's best to plan your meals before or after your drive in the nearby towns.

You'll find everything from classic American fare and pizza to international cuisine. Evergreen has a charming downtown with several highly-rated local spots. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly recommended. There are many beautiful spots along the drive where you can stop and enjoy a meal amidst nature.

You'll find grocery stores in both Morrison and Evergreen, which are convenient places to stock up on picnic supplies before you begin your scenic drive.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive offers a wonderful opportunity for families to experience Colorado's natural beauty without a strenuous hike. The drive itself provides constant entertainment with changing scenery. Pull over at safe, designated overlooks for short breaks and to let kids stretch their legs. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited along the route. Reddit Consider a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots for a memorable family meal. The towns of Morrison and Evergreen also offer kid-friendly dining options and unique shops to explore. If time permits, a visit to nearby Red Rocks Park can add another exciting element to your family's adventure.

🚗 Budget Travelers

The Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as the drive itself is free. The main costs will be fuel and any food or souvenirs you choose to purchase. Pack a picnic lunch from a local grocery store in Morrison or Evergreen to save on dining expenses. Reddit Utilize the numerous free scenic overlooks for breathtaking views and photo opportunities without needing to pay for park entrance fees. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the charm of the small towns, which often have affordable local eateries.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Traffic and Commuting

The Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is a popular route, and its proximity to Denver means traffic can be a significant factor, especially during peak commuting hours. As one Reddit user noted, the 30-45 minute estimate from Evergreen to Denver can be highly optimistic on a bad day. Reddit Travelers heading towards Denver in the morning or away from it in the evening should be prepared for potential delays. Weekends, particularly during good weather, also see an increase in traffic as locals and tourists alike enjoy the mountain scenery. Planning your drive outside of these busy periods is key to a relaxed experience.

For those considering this route for a daily commute, it's crucial to build in buffer time. Factors like weather, accidents, or special events in Denver can drastically impact travel times. While the drive offers beautiful views, the unpredictability of traffic might make it less ideal for those who need a consistently short commute. Consider exploring alternative routes or public transportation options if a reliable travel time is a priority. Reddit

Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips

The Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is a visual feast, offering numerous opportunities for stunning photography. The changing light throughout the day dramatically alters the mood of the landscape, making both early mornings and late afternoons prime times for photographers. The golden hour just after sunrise and before sunset bathes the mountains in a warm, soft glow, perfect for capturing dramatic vistas.

When driving, be mindful of safety and pull over only at designated scenic overlooks. These spots are designed for you to safely admire and photograph the scenery without obstructing traffic. Look for compositions that include the winding road, the vast mountain ranges, and the lush vegetation. Don't forget to explore the charming towns of Morrison and Evergreen; their unique architecture and local character offer different photographic subjects. TikTokInstagram Remember that cell service can be unreliable, so having your camera gear ready and your shots planned can be beneficial. Reddit

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