Where is Lizard Head Pass in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
117.64 km
3,127 m
easy
Year-round
Lizard Head Pass in Colorado? Oh, you HAVE to go! This beauty is right on the border of Dolores and San Miguel counties in southwest Colorado, nestled in the Lizard Head Wilderness. They even call it "The Most Beautiful Drive in America," and honestly, they might be right.
Why the name? Just look around! About 10 miles south of Telluride, you'll spot a peak that totally looks like a lizard's head.
The San Juan Scenic Byway (Highway 145) takes you right over the pass. It's all paved, so no worries about needing a special vehicle! This is a smooth ride for everyone.
From the town of Dolores to Placerville, you're cruising for about 73 miles.
This high-altitude pass in the San Juan Mountains is generally open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather in winter – it can close briefly if things get rough.
Don't stress too much about danger. The road is well-maintained, and the grades are gentle (maxing out around 7.8%). That said, Colorado weather is WILD. Be ready for anything, especially in winter. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so hitting it early is a good call. And remember you're at over 10,000 feet, so altitude sickness is a real thing. Hypothermia can be a risk year-round too, and watch out for early snowstorms in September!
Is it worth it? 100% YES. Plan about 1.5 hours without stops to soak it all in. Mid-July to early August is prime time, but honestly, any time is gorgeous. You'll wind through the San Juan, Uncompahgre, Wilson, and Sneffels Ranges, with waterfalls in spring, wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, or a winter wonderland if you time it right! Expect meadows bursting with wildflowers, spruce and aspen forests, and jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks. This is Colorado at its finest.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 117.64 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,127 m
- Difficulty
- easy
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