How to drive the historic Switzerland Trail in Boulder County?
The Switzerland Trail is a remarkably scenic mountain journey located in Boulder County, Colorado. Following the abandoned grade of a late 19th-century narrow-gauge railroad, this route offers a unique blend of mining history and technical driving through the rugged Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.
The trail zigzags across the mountains, tracing the path of the former Greeley, Salt Lake & Pacific Railway. Known for its incredible beauty that reminded early travelers of the Swiss Alps, the road today serves as a popular route for high-clearance vehicles. It passes through historic mining districts and offers expansive views of the Continental Divide, making it one of the most iconic backroads near Boulder.
| Road facts: Switzerland Trail | |
|---|---|
| Location | Boulder County, Colorado (USA) |
| Elevation | 2,797 m (9,179 ft) |
| Road Name | National Forest System Road 327 |
| Length | 22.5 km (14.0 miles) |
| Best Time | May to December |
What is the road condition of the Switzerland Trail?
Officially designated as National Forest System Road 327 (NFSR 327), the surface is notably rough and rocky. While the railroad heritage ensures moderate grades, the track itself is a classic "shelf road." In many sections, the road is only 8 to 10 feet wide, leaving no room to pass oncoming traffic. Most of the trail is manageable for high-clearance 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, but four-wheel drive (4WD) is highly recommended. Sudden Colorado thunderstorms can quickly transform the unpaved surface into a muddy, impassable track with significant washouts.
How long is the Switzerland Trail drive?
The drive covers 14.0 miles of historic terrain, reaching its highest point at 9,179 feet (2.797m). The trail is typically divided into two main sections: the northern part near Gold Hill and the southern stretch towards Sugarloaf Mountain. Because it follows an old railroad grade, you won't find extreme inclines, but you will encounter constant twists, turns, and bumps. The best time to explore the route is from late spring through autumn, as heavy snow often blocks the higher segments during the winter months. Driving the Switzerland Trail is not just about the technical challenge; it is a journey through Colorado’s "Golden Age" of rail and mining.
Pic: Stafford Marquardt