Alpine Loop
Length: 63 miles
Driving time: 4 to 6 hours
The Alpine Loop leaves pavement and people behind, crossing the remote, rugged, spectacular heart of the San Juan Mountains. It's demanding—the two 12,000-foot passes (Cinnamon and Engineer) require a high-clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicle—but the well-prepared motorist reaps unparalleled rewards: pristine mountain views, hiking and biking trails, great camping opportunities, and ample solitude. These rocky roads were first used by 19th-century miners, who carted their ore off to Silverton, Ouray, and Lake City in mule-drawn wagons. Spend an afternoon exploring abandoned townsites, structures, and other former mining haunts—if you want to commune with ghosts of Colorado's rich past.
Click here for the photo tour.
Features
- Seven ghost towns
- Two high alpine passes
- BLM/USFS wilderness areas
Local Chamber(s) of Commerce
Corridor Management Plan
Special Considerations
- Bring a full tank of gas and extra food/water.
- Closed in winter
- Roads can be muddy.
- BLM Alpine Loop Junior Explorer Book
- Alpine Loop Visitor Use Study
