A scenic unpaved road to Buffalo Pass in Colorado
Buffalo Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 3,146m (10,321ft) above sea level, located in the U.S. state of Colorado. It is suitable for most SUVs and some passenger cars with careful tire placement in spots.
Where is Buffalo Pass?
The pass is located on the boundary between Routt and Grand counties in the northern part of Colorado. Tucked away within the Routt National Forest, the pass is situated between Steamboat Springs and Walden.
Can you drive to Buffalo Pass in Colorado?
The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called Buffalo Pass Road (Routt County Road 38 and Forest Service Road 60). Although this road is in good condition, and 2WD cars will do fine at lower elevations, towards the top and final few miles, the conditions become rough for approximately four miles. High clearance vehicles are recommended.
Is Buffalo Pass open?
Set high in the Park Range of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, this road is usually closed from December 1 through June 30th or early July (depending on snow).
How to prepare for Buffalo Pass?
The weather in this zone is harsh and highly unpredictable, and it does not take much time for bright sunshine to change over to moderate to heavy snowfall. This approximately 15-mile stretch of scenic dirt road crosses the diverse habitats within the Park Range of the Rocky Mountains. Be aware of rapidly changing weather conditions. Lightning storms often form in the early afternoon, so be prepared for a quick departure if necessary. Sunscreen is a good idea in the thin air at high elevation. The elevation itself can cause discomfort in some people. Be cautious of hazard trees on and outside of the road corridor. Dead trees can and do fall without warning and with little or no help from the wind. There are a ridiculous number of mosquitoes, so make sure your anti-bug game is on point.
Is the road to Buffalo Pass scenic?
This road offers spectacular views of the Yampa and North Park valleys below, multiple alpine lakes within walking distance, access to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, multiple dispersed camping sites, and Summit Lake Campground with restroom facilities. Summit Lake is easily accessed from the top.
Pic&video: dc5grl