
Browns Pass
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,452 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, so you're in Gunnison County, Colorado and itching for an adventure? Browns Pass is calling your name! We're talking a seriously high mountain pass, topping out at 11,325 feet. This isn't your Sunday drive, though.
Located inside the Gunnison National Forest, the road is a gravel 4x4 track. Word to the wise: keep an eye on the weather. This route can get dicey quick with avalanches, heavy snow, and landslides β and those aren't just theoretical, expect ice. It's a bit rocky and muddy in spots too. But, the scenery? Absolutely worth it! The pass gets its name from a prospector named Brown, who worked some claims up there. Just imagine the views he had!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,452 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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