Why is it called Raton Pass?
Usa, north-america
35 km
2,390 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, let's talk Raton Pass! You'll find this high-altitude beauty straddling the Colorado-New Mexico border, clocking in at a whopping 7,841 feet above sea level. Fun fact: "Raton" is Spanish for "mouse." This pass was part of the old Santa Fe Trail.
The road, which is Interstate 25, stretches for about 22 miles, linking Raton, New Mexico, with Trinidad, Colorado.
The road is paved, so no need for off-road tires here, but hold on tight because there are some steep sections!
Good news: Raton Pass is generally open year-round. But, pro tip, winter can throw some curveballs. We're talking extreme winds, ice rinks disguised as roads, and snowstorms that'll test your driving skills.
Starting from Raton, you'll climb 11.6 miles, gaining 1,089 feet with an average gradient of 1.77%. From Trinidad, it’s a bit steeper: 13.9 miles, gaining 1,831 feet at an average gradient of 2.49%, with some sections hitting a max of 6%. Keep those winter tires handy!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 35 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,390 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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