Where is Hancock Pass?
Usa, north-america
27 km
3,702 m
moderate
Year-round
Colorado's Hancock Pass: Mining History and Mountain Highs!
Craving a scenic adventure packed with history? Hancock Pass, perched on the Chaffee/Gunnison County line in western Colorado, is calling your name! This high-altitude pass tops out at a breathtaking 12,145 feet (3.702m), earning it a spot among Colorado's highest roads.
Built in the 1880s, the old mining road is now Forest Road 839 (south) and Forest Road 299 (north), and it's 16.8 miles (27km) long, linking the ghost town of St. Elmo to Pitkin. Be warned: this isn't a Sunday drive! The unpaved route follows an old railroad grade. While it starts easy, the difficulty ramps up after the rail grade disappears. Expect a rocky, slow-going, moderate challenge. Aggressive stock SUVs should be fine, especially with skid plates. The road is narrow and quickly climbs above the treeline.
Keep in mind that snow makes this pass impassable from late October to late June/early July. Don't even THINK about attempting it if snow is present!
But if you arrive in summer, you'll be rewarded with incredible views! Ample parking at the top means you can soak in the scenery. The views on the other side are even better. This is a high alpine environment, so bring extra supplies and warm clothes, even on a sunny day!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 27 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,702 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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