DENVER, Colo. (Feb. 22, 2024) — The Colorado Scenic &amp; Historic Byway Commission proudly announces the addition of three new byways to the Colorado Electric Byways program. The Peak to Peak Scenic &amp; Historic Byway, Mt. Blue Sky Scenic &amp; Historic Byway, and Gold Belt Tour Scenic &amp; Historic Byway are officially recognized as Colorado Electric Byways. With the latest designations, Colorado now boasts a total of 17 Electric Byways, representing 65% progress towards the state’s goal of electrifying all 26 scenic byways.

“Colorado is progressively building a network of chargers that will allow motorists to visit our most scenic roadways knowing that they’re helping preserve natural beauty by cutting air pollution,” said Colorado Department of Transportation Executive Director Shoshana Lew.

Colorado Electric Byways serve as conduits for sustainable travel, offering electric vehicle travelers the opportunity to explore our state's breathtaking landscapes while reducing their carbon footprint. Colorado Electric Byways must have sufficient charging infrastructure in place for electric vehicle travelers to complete a journey along the byway. The specific requirements for designation as a Colorado Electric Byway include:

<ul>
	<li>Dual-port DC fast charging stations located at least every 100 miles within the start and terminus of the byway&nbsp;</li>
	<li>When byways are less than 100 miles, a dual-port DC fast charging station must be available within 15 miles of the start or terminus of the byway</li>
</ul>

“Our electrified scenic byways empower residents and visitors alike to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful outdoors in an electric vehicle without worrying about where to charge,” said Colorado Energy Office Executive Director Will Toor. “We’ve been working hard to deploy EV chargers across the state, and we encourage anyone exploring Colorado to consider doing so in an EV.”&nbsp;

Each of the newly designated byways presents a unique journey, showcasing the diversity and beauty of Colorado's natural scenery, unique communities and world-class attractions:

Peak to Peak Scenic &amp; Historic Byway: Spanning 55 miles along the lower ridges of the Front Range and Rocky Mountain National Park, the Peak to Peak Highway offers stunning views of the Indian Peaks and Longs Peak. Travelers are encouraged to explore charming towns like Estes Park, Nederland, Central City, and Black Hawk along the route.&nbsp;

Mount Blue Sky Scenic &amp; Historic Byway: Formerly known as Mount Evans, this byway boasts the title of the highest paved road in North America, reaching an elevation of 14,130 feet above sea level. With breathtaking vistas of alpine lakes, granite walls, and ancient bristlecone pines, the Mount Blue Sky Byway promises an unforgettable journey. Please note that timed-entry reservations are required for the upper-portion of the Mount Blue Sky Byway during summer months.

Gold Belt Tour Scenic &amp; Historic Byway: Tracing the path of early settlers in search of gold, the Gold Belt Tour Byway spans 131 miles and offers a glimpse into Colorado's rich mining history. Travelers should be prepared for certain stretches requiring 4x4 vehicles, particularly along the Shelf Road and Phantom Canyon. Gold Belt Tour Byway is part of the America’s Byways national collection.&nbsp;

"With the expansion of our electric vehicle infrastructure, Colorado is not only providing travelers with confidence in exploring Colorado's diverse landscapes, but also offering options for those prioritizing green travel," said CTO Director Timothy Wolfe.&nbsp; "This expansion underscores our commitment to sustainability and provides more tourism opportunities for those putting responsible tourism first."

The addition of these three iconic routes to the Colorado Electric Byways program underscores Colorado’s commitment to sustainable tourism and transportation. Electric vehicle infrastructure continues to expand across the state, enhancing accessibility and promoting eco-friendly travel options for residents and visitors alike.

For more information on the Colorado Electric Byways program and to plan your electric vehicle journey, please visit <a href="http://www.coloradobyways.com/">www.ColoradoByways.com</a>.

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About the Colorado Department of Transportation: The Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) mission is to provide the best multi-modal transportation system that most effectively and safely moves people, goods and information. CDOT maintains more than 23,000 lane miles of highway, more than 3,400 bridges and 35 mountain passes. Our team of employees works tirelessly to reduce the rate and severity of crashes and improve the safety of all modes of transportation. CDOT leverages partnerships with a range of private and public organizations and operates Bustang, an interregional express bus service. Find more details at <a href="http://www.codot.gov/">codot.gov</a>.

About the Colorado Energy Office: To deliver on the vision of a prosperous, clean energy future for Colorado, the Colorado Energy Office (CEO) works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and consumer energy costs by advancing clean energy, energy efficiency and zero emission vehicles to benefit all Coloradans. Go to <a href="http://energyoffice.colorado.gov/">energyoffice.colorado.gov</a> to learn more.

About the Colorado Tourism Office: The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) is a division of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade. The mission of the CTO is to empower the tourism industry by inspiring the world to explore Colorado responsibly and respectfully. The CTO seeks to advance the strength and resilience of the entire industry through collaboration, inclusivity, innovation and leadership. In 2022, Colorado travelers spent $27.7 billion, generating $1.7 billion in local and state revenues, reducing the tax burden for every Colorado household by $760. For more information, please visit www.colorado.com