A rocky, rough and washed out road to Stony Pass in Colorado
Usa, north-america
16.73 km
3,846 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in southwestern Colorado, just east of Silverton, ready to tackle Stony Pass. This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about one of the highest roads in the state, topping out at a whopping 12,618 feet!
This rough and rugged unpaved road, also known as Hamilton Pass, is about 10.4 miles long, connecting County Road 4 to Forest Road 506. Back in 1872, this was the lifeline for mining operations, bustling with mule trains carrying miners, silver, and gold. The name "Stony Pass" is no joke—it's rocky!
Heads up: this road is typically closed from late October until late June or early July. When it's open, you'll need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to navigate the rough, washed-out sections. Expect narrow spots – there's at least one section where you'll be crossing your fingers you don't meet another car!
But trust me, the views are worth it. You'll be winding alongside the Rio Grande, surrounded by wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and history oozing from the old mining sites. And when you reach the summit? Prepare for panoramic vistas of the Continental Divide that'll take your breath away. Get ready for an adventure!
Where is it?
A rocky, rough and washed out road to Stony Pass in Colorado is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.0878, -97.9298
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 16.73 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,846 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 38.0878, -97.9298
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