How to drive the unpaved road to Houghton Mountain in Colorado

Houghton Mountain is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3.781m (12,404ft) above sea level, located in San Juan County, in the U.S. state of Colorado. 

Houghton Mountain

Where is Houghton Mountain?

The peak is located north of Eureka, near Denver Pass, in the southwestern part of Colorado. The summit offers unique views of the Mount Sneffels cluster, the incomparable Uncompahgre Peak group, the Handies Peak assemblage, and Rio Grande Pyramid.

Is the road to Houghton Mountain unpaved?

The road to the summit is totally unpaved, narrow, with steep sections. It’s an old mining road. A 4x4 vehicle is required.

How long is the road to Houghton Mountain?

Starting from County Road 18, the road to the summit is 1.3 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 127 m and the average gradient is 9.76%. Along the way the trail passes historic mining structures. 

Is the road to Houghton Mountain open year-round?

Set high in the San Juan Mountains, snow is usually not plowed, so trail opens later in the season. Conditions can change rapidly, be careful of the weather. Access through snow can change daily.

 

 

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