The Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway, a network of four wheel drive roads that connect Lake City, Ouray, and Silverton, traverses passes up to 12,800 feet while showcasing old mines, ghost towns, natural wonders, beautiful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife. These roads were originally paths used by Native Americans crossing the region. In the 1880s, these trails were widened and used to access mines. Today, the Alpine Loop is an avenue for exploring nature and history amidst thrilling views and stunning geography. The listed points of interest are in order from Cinnamon Pass to Engineer Pass. Drivers looking for a more thrilling experience can venture to Poughkeepsie Pass, Black Bear Pass, and Imogene Pass. These passes are for experienced 4x4 drivers only.

Maps of the Alpine Loop are available at the Lake City Visitor Center for a small donation. Also available at the Visitor Center is the Alpine Explorer magazine, which includes detailed information about recreation opportunities, points of interest, wildlife, a detailed map and more. The listed points of interest are in order from Cinnamon Pass to Engineer Pass.

Points of Interest

Carson: Considered one of the best preserved historic mining camps in Colorado, Carson is well worth the trek up Wager Gulch.

Sherman Overlook: Get a bird’s eye view of the once bustling city that serviced the profitable Black Wonder Mine. Also keep an eye out for big horn sheep, as they are known to frequent the rocks around the overlook.

Burrows Park: In a space of a few miles, at least 6 towns once existed here during the height of mining in the San Juans. Historic buildings at the trailheads of Handies, Redcloud and Sunshine Peaks have been restored.

American Basin: American Basin, one of the most photographed places in Colorado, is located about a mile east of the summit of Cinnamon Pass. American Basin is home to a spectacular show of wildflowers each July, though some flowers bloom earlier in the summer. Species include larkspur, lupine, old man of the mountain, Indian paintbrush, monkshood and native columbine. The flowers usually peak mid-July. To keep this display for all visitors, please do not pick the flowers and walk only on the road and trails.

Animas Forks: Animas translates to spirit or ghost and visitors will sense the spirits of the old miners who worked this area in days gone by. This old mining town has a number of well preserved buildings and serves as a junction for several four wheel drive roads.

Silverton: Connected to Lake City not only by Cinnamon Pass but also by a rich mining history, Silverton was founded in 1873, a year before Lake City. The heyday of mining in Silverton brought a population explosion, new businesses and the tawdry side of the mining boom: the notorious red light district on Blair Street. Present day Silverton is now a bit smaller and calmer. Silverton attracts visitors who wish to ride the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic railroad that runs the same course as it did in the 1882 along the Animas River. Silverton also offers a number of museums, the Silverton Gunfighters, two ski areas, mine tours, and more.

Ouray: Named for perhaps the most famous Ute leader, Chief Ouray, this mountain town is nicknamed the “Switzerland of America.” Incorporated in 1876, Ouray is another example of a town that finds its roots in precious metal mining. Today, Ouray is known for recreation, particularly rafting, hiking, and ice climbing in the winter. Visitors to Ouray can also spend time exploring Box Canon Waterfall and Park and soaking in the healing waters at the Hot Springs Pool.

Mineral Point: Located just south of the summit of Engineer Pass, this point of interest isn’t for the faint of heart. Those willing to drive out on the point will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding wilderness.

Rose Lime Kiln: Forty-four feet in height, this kiln stands alone along the road to Engineer Pass. Built in 1881 to produce an ash-free lime, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Whitmore Falls: Tucked back almost beneath the road, Henson Creek is choked into a tight column of water that thunders through the falls. Steps have been placed to allow easier access to a safe viewing platform and a great photo opportunity.

Capitol City: Named because its founder had high hopes of the town becoming the capital of Colorado, this ghost town sits at the confluence of Henson Creek and North Henson Creek.

Nellie Creek: This steep, rugged four wheel drive road passes a beautiful 2-tier waterfall as it leads to the trailhead for Uncompahgre Peak.

Ute Ulay Mine and Mill: A number of original mine and mill buildings remain at this site, which also includes informational signs and a picturesque view of Henson Creek. Power for the mine was supplied by a 118 foot high dam on Henson Creek below the town.

Passes of the Alpine Loop

Cinnamon Pass: At an elevation of 12,620 feet, Cinnamon Pass offers breathtaking views of the alpine tundra and high mountain peaks.

Engineer Pass: At 12,800 feet in elevation, Engineer Pass boasts views of American Flats, Uncompahgre Peak, and on clear days, Utah.

Hurricane Pass: From the top of this 12,407ft pass, riders are rewarded with a beautiful view of Lake Como. This pass is accessed from Corkscrew Gulch and California Gulch.

Stony Pass: The summit of this 12,650ft pass is located on the Continental Divide and is a gateway to Lost Trail Creek and Kite Lake. The road travels through Pole Creek, which is often too high to cross in the early summer.

Driving the Alpine Loop

Portions of this road are not paved and require a four wheel drive, high clearance vehicle. The Alpine Loop has narrow twists and blind curves.

Courtesy Rules of the Alpine Loop

1. Stay on designated roads. Obey posted signs for parking and trails.
2. Please drive slowly and watch for on-coming traffic. 
3. Stay on your side of the road on blind curves. Honk to warn on-coming traffic.
4. Uphill traffic has the right-of-way.
5. Do not park or stop on narrow sections of the road. Use pull-outs or wider areas of the road to park.

Please note that ATVs and unlicensed motorcycles cannot be driven into the city limits of Lake City, Silverton, or Ouray. Also, all ATVs and unlicensed motorcycles must have resident or non-resident registrations and liability insurance. While riding, please be courteous to other drivers and obey all regulations.  

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