Black Bear Pass
The Black Bear Road and Pass is an adrenaline pumping, scenic four-wheel drive road that is located in the spectacular San Juan Mountains between Ouray and Silverton, near Telluride, Colorado. Just south of the summit of Red Mountain Pass on Highway 550, you will find the beginning of this thrilling adventure avenue.
Starting at an elevation of approximately 11,500' at the Red Mountain Pass, the one-way only Black Bear Pass Trail climbs up the switchbacks and quickly back above timberline. It is a one-way trail making it easy to drive, as it would be extremely difficult to get two four-wheel drive vehicles to pass each other on this trail. In addition, the top switchbacks would not hold 2-way traffic, as they too are narrow and steep.
If you are not fond of cliff trails, then do not attempt to take this road. The Black Bear Pass Trail is full of nail biting, cliff edge driving. The scenery, however, is spectacular. Everywhere you will see Columbines, Indian Paintbrush, and many other wildflowers. The views of the valleys below are awe-inspiring as you wind your way up and further up until you reach the summit at the top of Black Bear Pass at an elevation of 12,800 feet.
Always remember that off-highway, remote backcountry road travel is by its very nature dangerous. You are the final judge as to whether a trail is safe to drive, whether your vehicle is capable of the journey, and whether your skills are up to the challenge.
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