
Where is McClure Pass?
Usa, north-america
79.82 km
2,681 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for McClure Pass in Colorado! This baby climbs to 8,795 feet, so be ready for some serious views. You'll find it straddling Pitkin and Gunnison counties in western Colorado, and yep, it's paved the whole way as Highway 133—also known as the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway.
Clocking in at almost 50 miles, you can cruise it north-south from Carbondale to Somerset. Just be prepared for some serious hills! The Carbondale side maxes out at a 9% grade, and the Somerset side isn't much easier with 8% grades.
Good news is, McClure Pass is usually open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather—heavy snow can close it down. Avalanche risk is real here, so stay alert. And don't forget to stop at the park area near the top for some killer photo ops!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 79.82 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,681 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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