How to drive the unpaved road to Blue Lake in Colorado

Blue Lake is an alpine lake at an elevation of 3.728m (12,230ft) above sea level, located in San Miguel County, in the U.S. state of Colorado. It’s one of the highest roads in Colorado.

Blue Lake

Where is Blue Lake?

The crystal-clear lake is located north of Silverton in the southwestern part of Colorado. 

Is the road to Blue Lake unpaved?

The narrow road to the lake is totally unpaved and pretty challenging, with narrow parts and steep sections. It’s an old mining road. Along the way the trail passes historic mining structures including the remains of an old tram, mining cabins and a bunkhouse. 

How long is the road to Blue Lake?

Starting from Telluride, the road to the summit is 10.5km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 1039 m and the average gradient is 9.89%. Nestled in a glacial cirque, it’s a great trail for experienced wheelers.

Is the road to Blue Lake open year-round?

Set high in the San Juan Mountains, the road is not plowed in winters, and usually impassable from October through June.
Pic: Gregor Patrick

 

 

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