Road trip guide: Conquering Old La Veta Pass in Colorado
La Veta Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.864m (9,396ft) above sea level, located in the US state of Colorado.
Where is La Veta Pass?
The pass, also known as Old La Veta Pass, is located on the boundary of Costilla and Huerfano counties, in the south-central part of Colorado, to the south of the modern North La Veta Pass. The Uptop Historic District is a ghost town located on top of the pass.
When was the road through La Veta Pass built?
In 1877 was built a narrow-gauge railroad through the pass, later a wagon road and converted into highway in 1921-22.
Can you drive through La Veta Pass in CO?
The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called County Road 443. High-clearance vehicle required. The road is lightly traveled.
How long is La Veta Pass in CO?
The pass is 9.01km (5.6 miles) long with the start and end off of Highway 160.
Is La Veta Pass in CO open?
Set high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the road is not plowed in winters and usually impassable from October through June.
Pic: Steve Porter