How to drive the 8 hairpins of Columbus Basin Road in Colorado?
Lewis Mountain is a high mountain peak located in La Plata County, in the US state of Colorado. While the summit sits higher, a gravel road situated north of the peak climbs to an elevation of 3,573m (11,722ft) above sea level.
| Road facts: Columbus Basin Road (Lewis Mountain) | |
|---|---|
| Location | La Plata County, Colorado (USA) |
| Max Road Elevation | 3,573 m (11,722 ft) |
| Length | 3.1 km (1.9 miles) from CR 124 |
| Average Gradient | 11.54% |
| Technical Features | 8 hairpins / High-altitude shelf road |
Where is Lewis Mountain?
The peak is located south of Snowstorm Peak, northwest of Durango in the southwestern part of Colorado, within the San Juan National Forest.
Is the road to Lewis Mountain unpaved?
The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called Columbus Basin Road. 4x4 vehicles only. It’s an old mining trail that offer extreme exposure and high-alpine vistas. It is a classic Colorado shelf road and drivers must stay alert for potential turnouts, as meeting traffic in narrow locations is a common hazard on this road.
How long is the road to Lewis Mountain?
Starting from County Road 124 (La Plata Canyon), the road climbs for 3.1 km (1.9 miles). Over this short distance, the elevation gain is 358 meters, resulting in a brutal average gradient of 11.54%. The track features 8 sharp hairpin turns.
Is the road to Lewis Mountain open in winter?
Set high in the La Plata Range, road conditions are subject to rapid change. Winter arrives early and stays late in the San Juan National Forest. The road is impassable from October to late June.
When is the best time to drive to Lewis Mountain?
It is only recommended to run this trail in the middle of summer when the road is free of snow and stable enough.
Pic: Michael Perez