Ophir Pass
The San Juan Mountains near Telluride, Colorado is a mecca for four-wheel adventure. One of the easiest of the high mountain trails to enjoy in your four-wheel vehicle is the Ophir Pass Road. This road was originally built as a wagon road between the mines around Ophir and Telluride to Silverton.
One of the easier four-wheel backcountry roads in the San Juan Mountains is the Ophir Pass Road. The road does not require any experience in four-wheel driving. The driver just needs to be careful. The road can be driven in good weather conditions by two wheel vehicles providing they have sufficient clearance.
Beginning about five miles south of the Red Mountain Pass, the road continues west. The road gradually rises and is nearly wide enough for two vehicles to pass each other. You will travel through forested land and then continue on past rocky patches until you reach the summit at 11,789 feet. The snow may remain at the summit well into June.
The views from the summit are incredible and well worth the time it takes you to reach the top. As always, on any stretch of road, use caution and be sure to drive slowly.
Telluride, CO Weather
Currently Outside 19FLight snow. Mostly cloudy. Cold. |
