Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
Lake City’s Crown Jewel of 4 Wheel Driving Adventure
The Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway in the northern San Juan Mountains offers a spectacular 65 mile tour of beautiful mountain scenery. The byway has two 12,000+ foot passes that require four wheel drive vehicles and high clearance. This amazing drive offers a look back to the early days of Colorado mining as you pass old hard rock mining structures, rail beds and tramways. You’ll be reminded of how the miners endured a hostile yet beautiful alpine environment. The Alpine Loop crosses land managed predominately by the BLM between the gateway communities of Lake City, Silverton and Ouray. Please respect all private property and stay on the route at all times.
For more info visit: www.alpineloop.com
Pearl Pass: Crested Butte’s Classic Journey to Aspen
Pearl Pass is located between Crested Butte and Aspen, and for those able to make the traverse, it is an unforgettable journey. This 22 mile long trail requires four wheel drive vehicles with high clearance and is not for the faint of heart. The route takes you from Crested Butte through wildflowers and rolling hillsides to the high point of 12,705 feet on top of Pearl Pass. Along the way you’ll encounter boulder fields, steep climbs and water crossings. Take a break after the decent and check out the old mining town of Ashcroft on your final push to Aspen. Be sure to check with local authorities before you leave as snow often closes the pass for the entire summer.
Pearl Pass crosses land managed by the Gunnison National Forest and the White River National Forest. Please respect private property and stay on the route at all times.
For more information contact the Gunnison National Forest at (970) 874-6600
