The Ultimate Road Trip To Mount Bross in Colorado

# Mount Bross: Colorado's Sky-High Mining Adventure

Want to drive one of the highest roads in the USA? Head to Park County in central Colorado, just west of Denver, where you'll find Mount Bross tucked into the Pike National Forest. This 13,356-foot peak sits in the stunning Mosquito Range and comes with some serious bragging rights.

The journey follows County Road 787—also called Windy Ridge Road—an old mining road that's completely unpaved. The official drive ends near the Mineral Park mine in Dolly Varden Gulch, and honestly, most of the route is pretty straightforward. But here's where it gets real: as you climb higher, things get narrow and rocky. We're talking loose rock, tight spots, and seriously exposed sections that'll make full-size vehicle owners nervous. Compact SUVs and high-clearance vehicles are your friends here.

Fair warning—the summit itself is private property, and owners haven't allowed public access to the actual peak since 2005. You'll see a no-vehicle marker about 150 feet from the top, so respect that boundary. The whole mountain is basically a patchwork of old mining claims and roads, which is part of its charm and complexity.

Here's the reality check: this road is only reliably accessible during summer months. Afternoon thunderstorms pop up almost daily and roll across the peak like clockwork. Get up early and plan to be back down by noon—lightning at 13,000 feet isn't worth the risk.

But those views? Absolutely worth the effort. You'll see other 14ers stretching across the horizon, historic mining relics scattered everywhere, and some of Colorado's most breathtaking alpine scenery. It's history, adventure, and mountain beauty all rolled into one unforgettable drive.