Where is Cochetopa Pass?

Where is Cochetopa Pass?

Usa, north-america

Length

42.32 km

Elevation

3,076 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Cochetopa Pass: a killer Colorado climb that tops out at 10,091 feet! You'll find this gem in southern Colorado, right on the Continental Divide, smack-dab between the Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests.

"Cochetopa" is a Ute word meaning "Pass of the Buffalo," and this route has been around since way back in 1858! Ready to drive it? Just hop on Saguache County Road NN14, also known as Cochetopa Pass Road.

The good news is, you don't need a monster truck. This well-maintained, graded dirt road is totally doable in your average car as it snakes through those gorgeous national forest lands. Most drivers won't find it too tricky.

The climb is about 26.3 miles long, starting and ending on State Highway 114. Think gentle grades and fairly wide lanes. Just a heads up: there's another pass nearby, a little further north on Highway 114, called North Cochetopa Pass.

Keep in mind this is the Rockies, so the road's usually snowed in from October to June. Plan accordingly!

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Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
42.32 km
Max Elevation
3,076 m
Difficulty
moderate

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