Can you drive to Clohesy Lake in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
5.3 km
3,356 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, let's talk about Clohesy Lake Road (FS 381) in Chaffee County, Colorado! Nestled in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness near Crested Butte, this isn't your average Sunday drive. This unpaved beauty kicks off near Rockdale and stretches for about 3.3 miles into the Sawatch Range.
Now, here's the deal: you can't take your sedan on this trip. We're talking about water crossings, seriously rocky patches, and a steep climb that maxes out at a 14% gradient! A 4WD vehicle with high clearance is a MUST. The road gains 340 meters in elevation, averaging around 6.41% gradient, ending way up at 3,356m (11,010ft). Fair warning: the final 0.75 miles are hike-only.
But the views? Totally worth it. Think classic Colorado: pine forests giving way to stunning alpine scenery, with aspens adding splashes of color. Just be prepared for a challenging but unforgettable drive! And remember, this road's a no-go in winter.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 5.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,356 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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