How to drive the 4x4 road to Red Mountain in Colorado?
Red Mountain is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3,869m (12,693ft) above sea level, located in Chaffee County, in the US state of Colorado. Situated in the Sawatch Range, the route to the summit follows the unpaved Peek-A-Boo Gulch mining track, ranking among the highest roads of Colorado.
| Road facts: Red Mountain (Peek-A-Boo Gulch) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chaffee County, Colorado (USA) |
| Elevation at Summit | 3,869 m (12,693 ft) |
| Length | 1.86 miles (3.0 km) upper ascent |
| Average Gradient | 10.16% |
| Surface | 100% unpaved (loose scree, shale, mining rock) |
| Vehicle Requirements | High-clearance 4x4 with low range mandatory |
Where is Red Mountain located?
The peak sits in the Sawatch Range of central Colorado, within Chaffee County. The climb follows the narrow Peek-A-Boo Gulch mining trail, rising steeply above the timberline to the 3,869-meter summit plateau.
Is the Peek-A-Boo Gulch Road paved?
No. The track is entirely unpaved and unmaintained. The surface is composed of shifting shale, jagged mining debris, loose scree, and exposed rock ledges with no barriers along steep drop-offs.
Do I need a 4x4 to drive to Red Mountain?
Yes. A true high-clearance 4x4 with low range (4L) is mandatory. With a steep average gradient of 10.16% and significant engine power loss near 3,900 meters altitude, four-wheel drive low range is required to maintain traction on loose inclines and prevent torque converter overheating.
Can full-size trucks drive the Peek-A-Boo Gulch track?
Full-size trucks are not recommended. The upper shelf sections are extremely narrow with no turnout spots or space to execute a multi-point turn. Narrow or short-wheelbase 4x4 vehicles handle the tight line selection and shelf clearances much better.
Is the road to Red Mountain open year-round?
No. At nearly 3,900 meters elevation, heavy snowpacks block Peek-A-Boo Gulch Road well into late July. The driving window is very short, and sudden afternoon blizzards or severe monsoon rainstorms can occur even in mid-summer.