Williams Pass in Colorado is for experienced drivers only
Usa, north-america
8 km
3,593 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! Williams Pass in central Colorado is a hidden gem sitting way up high at 11,788 feet. Seriously, this place is only accessible for a few weeks each year, so timing is everything!
You'll find it nestled near the old ghost town of Hancock, right on the edge of San Isabel and Gunnison National Forests, marking the boundary between Chaffee and Gunnison counties.
Picture this: a totally unpaved, rugged jeep trail (NFST #298) winding through a gorgeous alpine meadow. This isn't your average Sunday drive! We're talking a narrow, rocky path, following an old 1880s toll road, with mud bogs adding to the challenge. Expect a bumpy, rocky ride that's tight in spots with trees and shrubs.
The Williams Pass Jeep Trail is about 5 miles long, connecting the Alpine Tunnel National Forest System Road #839 (NFSR) to the Continental Divide on NFSR #295. It's a steep climb in places, reaching a maximum gradient of 8%.
Definitely bring your high-clearance 4x4 for this one! And be warned, after it rains, this trail can get seriously muddy and unsafe. This pass was closed for a long time and only reopened in 1997, and even then, it's usually only open during August, if the weather cooperates. Bottom line? Check conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.
Where is it?
Williams Pass in Colorado is for experienced drivers only is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 36.7971, -100.6303
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 8 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,593 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 36.7971, -100.6303
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