Engineer Pass

Engineer Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located in southwestern Colorado. The pass sits at an elevation of 12,800 feet and connects the towns of Ouray and Lake City. Engineer Pass is one of the most popular backcountry roads in Colorado as is represents one half of what is known as the Alpine Loop.  The second half of the loop is the trail that runs from Lake City, back west over Cinnamon Pass, to Silverton.

The road up to Engineer Pass is steep and narrow in places and requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate. The road is also rocky and rugged, so it's recommended to have some off-road driving experience before attempting the pass. Despite the challenges, the views from Engineer Pass are truly breathtaking. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, including views of Uncompahgre Peak, which is the sixth-highest peak in Colorado.

Engineer Pass was originally built in the late 1800s as a supply route for the mining towns in the area. The pass was named after the engineers who built the road, and it played a significant role in the mining history of the region. Today, the pass is primarily used for recreation and is a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts.

In addition to the stunning views, there are several hiking trails that start from Engineer Pass. The most popular hike is the hike to Engineer Mountain, which is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you up to the summit of the mountain. The trailhead for the hike is located just off the Engineer Pass road, making it a convenient stop for hikers.

If you're planning a trip to Engineer Pass, it's important to come prepared. The road up to the pass can be challenging, and it's recommended to have a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle, and some off-road driving experience. It's also important to bring plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing, as the weather at high altitudes can be unpredictable and the road - if you choose to take it all the way to Lake City - is quite long.

On your way to Engineer Pass, make sure to set aside a few minutes to explore the old mining town of Animas Forks, which sits in a valley below the pass next to a river of the same name.

Animas Forks is a ghost town that was once a thriving mining community in the late 1800s. The town is located in the San Juan Mountains.  The town was established in the 1870s and was home to several thousand residents at its peak. The community was a bustling center of mining activity, with several mines in the area producing gold, silver, and other valuable minerals. The town had all the amenities of a modern city, including a post office, saloons, a general store, and even a jail. However, the boom times were short-lived, and by the turn of the century, the mines in the area began to decline. Many of the residents left in search of new opportunities, and the town was largely abandoned by the 1920s.

Today, Animas Forks has been well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the mining history of the region. You can walk around and explore the ruins of the old buildings and get an idea of what daily life was like for the people who once called the town home.

If you're interested, check out the folks from Arkansas Overland as they share their experience on Engineer Pass.