
Cochetopa Pass is an unforgettable road in Colorado
Usa, north-america
42.32 km
3,076 m
easy
Year-round
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! I've got a gem for you: Cochetopa Pass in sunny Colorado! This beauty sits way up high at 10,091 feet in Saguache County, right on the Continental Divide where the Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests meet.
Cochetopa means "Pass of the Buffalo" in the Ute language, and this route's been around since 1858! Talk about history!
You'll be cruising along Saguache County Road NN14, aka Cochetopa Pass Road. Don't worry, it's a well-maintained gravel road, so your average car can handle it. Seriously, no crazy off-roading skills needed here. Just you, your car, and mile after mile of stunning national forest views.
The road stretches for about 26.3 miles, all the way from State Highway 114 to State Highway 114. Expect gentle slopes and a decent width, making for a relaxing drive. Fun fact: there's a slightly higher pass nearby called North Pass (or North Cochetopa Pass) if you're feeling extra adventurous!
Heads up, though: this road is usually snowed in from October to June. So plan your trip accordingly!
Where is it?
Cochetopa Pass is an unforgettable road in Colorado is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.4547, -97.3071
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 42.32 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,076 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 38.4547, -97.3071
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