Where is Jones Pass?
Usa, north-america
8.69 km
3,804 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Jones Pass in Colorado is calling your name! This epic mountain pass sits at a whopping 12,480 feet, straddling Clear Creek and Grand Counties, west of Denver, in the Arapaho National Forest.
The road to the top? It's Jones Pass Road (Forest Road 202), a totally unpaved dirt road with some seriously steep sections. You'll want a vehicle with medium to high clearance to tackle some of the tougher spots, but in good conditions, most vehicles can make it. Don't let the winding turns and grades scare you off, though!
Think hairpin turns with incredible views, and be prepared for a bit of a thrill if you're not a fan of heights – some of those switchbacks are right on the edge. But the road is generally well-maintained.
Keep in mind, though, that this beauty is usually snowed in from late October to late June/early July, so aim for a late summer adventure.
Starting near Berthoud Falls off Hwy 40, it's a 5.4-mile climb to the top with an average gradient of 9.14%. It's a steady climb, then a steep drop on the other side.
Factor in about an hour from the highway to the summit, but trust me, you'll want to stop. The views are absolutely stunning! Think wildflowers, alpine vistas, and glimpses into Colorado's mining history. Plus, there's parking at the top so you can soak it all in. Get ready for some seriously breathtaking scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 8.69 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,804 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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