Viewing Scenery
General Info:
Overview/BackgroundHigh clearance recommended, not necessarily 4WD. Look for a few rocky places and ruts. At the top of the pass, 12,075 feet, there are good views of the Turquoise Lake Valley to the east and the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness to the southwest.
Good scenic drive for viewing wildflowers, pika and marmot. Just before the pass, look to the south over Hagerman Lake to see remnants of the Colorado Midland Railroad, which has one of the most interesting histories of railroads still today, and has accomplished some of the most incredible feats along the Hagerman Pass Road.
Permits & RegulationsForest Service roads open to motorized vehicles are posted with white arrows. Wilderness areas such as Collegiate Peaks and Mount Massive are by regulation permanently closed to motorized and mechanized vehicles, including mountain bikes.
Safety Information Storms are common in this area, and can make driving difficult. Please consult the weather forecast of the area you will be traveling before departure.
Seasonal InformationStorms are frequent in this area, especially during summer months. Winter brings icy conditions, and will close down the pass from November until late June.