A rocky and rough road to Hermit Pass in Colorado

# Hermit Pass: Colorado's Rocky Alpine Adventure

Ready to tackle one of Colorado's most thrilling mountain roads? Hermit Pass sits pretty at a breathtaking 3,986m (13,077ft) elevation in Custer County, just outside the charming town of Westcliffe in southern Colorado. This hidden gem winds through the San Isabel National Forest and ranks among the state's highest drivable passes.

The 23.17km (14.4-mile) journey on County Road 160 starts deceptively easy—a gentle dirt road climb that lulls you into a false sense of security. But don't be fooled! As you ascend those wide switchbacks, the terrain transforms into a rocky, technically challenging beast. The road gets progressively rockier the higher you climb, with frequent tight turns, stream crossings, and some seriously steep sections. Keep right at any spur roads you encounter, and you'll stay on track to the summit. The good news? The road stays fairly wide throughout.

You'll want a solid 4x4 with high clearance for this one, though capable stock SUVs with low-range gearing and moderate ground clearance can make the cut. Budget about 2 hours for the drive without stopping—that's a 1,578m elevation gain at an average gradient of 6.81%.

Summer is peak season here, especially up to Hermit Lake, so visit on weekdays if you're hoping to avoid the crowds. Come winter, though, this beauty closes down from late October through late June or early July. Even in peak summer months, you might spot lingering snow patches.

The payoff? Stunning panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain peaks and pristine alpine lakes that make every rocky mile worth it.