Dare to drive the unpaved road to Kingston Peak in Colorado
Kingston Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3.671m (12,043ft) above the sea level, located on the boundary between Clear Creek and Gilpin counties, in the US state of Colorado. It’s one of the highest roads of Colorado.
Is the road Kingston Peak in Colorado unpaved?
Situated in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains of North America and within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, the road leading to the summit, known as FSR 353 1 (Kingston Peak road), is unpaved. A significant portion of this route lies above the timberline and can be steep and rocky in places. It's recommended solely for high clearance vehicles with 4WD. While many SUVs might find the road challenging, a 4-wheel drive vehicle with good clearance should handle it well.
How long is the road to Kingston Peak in Colorado?
The road spans 25.42km (15.8 miles), stretching from Rollinsville (in Gilpin County) to St. Mary's (in Clear Creek County). A standout feature of this route is the breathtaking views it offers. Expect to see splendid vistas of the Continental Divide, Loch Lomond, and James Peak, which stands at 13,294 ft.
Is Kingston Peak in Colorado open?
Located in central Colorado, this road isn't plowed during winter. It's essential to note that the trail is typically cold and windy. The route ascends above 12,000 feet, where snow can remain well into July. Early snowfalls can also close the upper sections of the trail as soon as mid-September.
Pic: Trevor Stone (Stonebeard)