How to drive Eightmile Mesa Road (USFS #651) in Colorado?
Eightmile Mesa is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2,494m (8,182ft) above sea level, located in Archuleta County, in the US state of Colorado. Situated within the San Juan National Forest, the summit is accessed via Eight Mile Mesa Road (USFS Road #651), an unpaved track leading to a historic fire lookout tower built in 1963.
| Road facts: Eightmile Mesa (USFS #651) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Archuleta County, Colorado (USA) |
| Road Name | USFS Road #651 (Eight Mile Mesa Rd) |
| Elevation at Summit | 2,494 m (8,182 ft) |
| Length | 8.5 km (5.28 miles) from US-84 |
| Elevation Gain | 314 m (1,030 ft) |
| Average Gradient | 3.69% |
| Surface | 100% unpaved (dirt, sand, loose rock) |
| Vehicle Requirements | High-clearance vehicle recommended (4WD required when wet) |
Where is Eightmile Mesa located?
The mesa sits in the San Juan National Forest in southern Colorado, just south of Pagosa Springs. USFS Road #651 branches off the paved US-84 and climbs 8.5 km (5.28 miles) to the fire lookout at the summit.
Is Eightmile Mesa Road paved?
No. The entire 8.5 km route is completely unpaved. While the lower section is well-graded gravel, the surface past the 651A junction becomes rutted dirt with sandy pockets, dips, and exposed rocks.
Do I need a 4x4 to drive USFS Road #651?
In dry conditions, a 2WD vehicle with good ground clearance can reach the lookout tower. However, high clearance is necessary to clear rocky dips and deep ruts. If the track is wet, a 4x4 is required, as rain turns the sandy dirt into slick, axle-trapping mud.
How challenging is the drive to Eightmile Mesa?
The climb maintains a modest average gradient of 3.69%, so steepness is not the issue. The difficulty comes from deep ruts, narrow single-lane sections with limited passing places, and sharp stones that can puncture low-profile tires.
Is Eightmile Mesa Road open year-round?
No. USFS Road #651 is unmaintained during winter and remains blocked by snow and ice from October until June.
Pic&more info: http://pagosasprings.com/the-charm-of-eightmile-mesa-in-southeast-pagosa-country/