Hermit Pass

Hermit Pass is a high mountain pass located in southern Colorado. It's situated in the San Isabel National Forest in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. The pass is known for its epic views and stunning natural beauty, making it perfect for off-road enthusiasts, hikers, campers, fishermen, and photographers alike.

The pass reaches a bit over 13,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the higher mountain passes in Colorado. The high elevation means the Hermit can experience significant snowfall and harsh winter conditions. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the towering peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Range. 

In the summer, you can explore hiking trails that lead to nearby peaks, lakes, and scenic overlooks. The pass also provides access to the Rainbow Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that traverses the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. During the winter, the area is suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

There are several designated camping areas near Hermit Pass, both in developed campgrounds and dispersed camping sites. These camping spots offer a chance to experience the beauty of the high mountain environment.

Hermit Pass is considered a moderately challenging, primarily due to the rocky nature of the trail. Though there is very little technical driving required, the route demands patience and endurance as the pace will be quite slow.

If you're interested in finding out more about running Hermit Pass, check out this video from Brandon at Berserker Off-Road as he shares his experience camping on the trail!