Where is Poughkeepsie Pass?
Usa, north-america
18.5 km
3,938 m
hard
Year-round
Alright thrill-seekers, listen up! Poughkeepsie Pass, nestled high in Colorado's San Juan Mountains near Ouray, is calling your name. This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. Clocking in at 11.5 miles, this west-to-east route from Ironton to Animas Forks is a serious 4x4 adventure.
Forget pavement – we're talking gravel, rocks, and some seriously steep climbs. County Road 19 is not messing around! Expect erosion, loose rock, and maybe even some mud wrestling with your Jeep. Oh, and did I mention the potential for legit water crossings with currents that could sweep you off your tires?
"The Wall," a famous obstacle, now has a bypass (thank goodness!), but trust me, the whole trail demands respect. We're talking ledges up to five feet and near-vertical sections that will test your nerve. Lockers and a winch? Non-negotiable. That one super-sharp hairpin turn is particularly spicy.
Typically open from April to October (depending on snow, of course), the views from the 12,919-foot summit are absolutely breathtaking. Just remember, this road features some narrow shelf sections, so keep your eyes peeled! This isn't a technically crazy trail, but its remoteness and exposure demand your full attention. This pass is a Colorado classic that will leave you breathless—both from the views and the drive!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 18.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,938 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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