How to drive the unpaved road to Empire Pass in Colorado

Empire Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.678m (8,786ft) above sea level, located in Clear Creek County, in the U.S. state of Colorado.

Empire Pass

Where is Empire Pass?

The pass is located north of Georgetown, in the central part of Colorado, within the Arapaho National Forest.

Is the road to Empire Pass unpaved?

The road to the summit is totally unpaved in very good condition. It’s called Bard Creek Road. Most passenger vehicles can do it in fair weather.

How long is the road to Empire Pass?

Starting from the historic Town of Empire, the road to the summit is 1.93km (1.2 miles) long.

Is the road to Empire Pass open year-round?

Set high in the Front Range, the road is not plowed in winters.