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Pearl Pass
Off-Road Trail
Gunnison & White River National Forests, Colorado
Adventure Badge
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Adventure Badge
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Trail Information
Pearl Pass is another iconic mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Like nearby Taylor Pass, Pearl Pass is known for its challenging terrain and stunning alpine scenery. It is situated in the Elk Mountains, linking the town of Crested Butte in Gunnison County with Aspen in Pitkin County. The location of the pass marks the point where the White River & Gunnison National Forests meet and sits at an elevation of around 12,700 feet (3,870 meters).
Features
This trail was a popular route for miners and prospectors seeking to transport goods between Crested Butte and Aspen during the height of the silver mining era. It served as a critical route for trade and played a key role in the development of the region.
The pass can be accessed via Forest Service Roads from either Crested Butte or Aspen. It passes through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of alpine meadows, mountain peaks, and forests along the way. The road is unpaved and can be quite challenging, with steep ascents and descents, rocky sections, and narrow paths.
Difficultly
Pearl Pass is considered a challenging route, both in terms of driving difficulty and the ruggedness of the terrain. It's important to note that the difficulty of the pass can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, the time of year, and your level of off-road driving experience.
The weather can change rapidly at these elevations, and drivers should be prepared for sudden storms, snowfall, and limited visibility. Due to the rugged terrain and challenging driving conditions, it's important to have a well-maintained and appropriately equipped vehicle, as well as a good understanding of off-road driving techniques.
Access to Pearl Pass is typically limited to the late summer and early fall months when the snow has melted and the road is passable. Depending on snow level and temperature, the pass may remain closed throughout the year due to lack of snowmelt.
Vehicle Recommendations
Features
This trail was a popular route for miners and prospectors seeking to transport goods between Crested Butte and Aspen during the height of the silver mining era. It served as a critical route for trade and played a key role in the development of the region.
The pass can be accessed via Forest Service Roads from either Crested Butte or Aspen. It passes through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of alpine meadows, mountain peaks, and forests along the way. The road is unpaved and can be quite challenging, with steep ascents and descents, rocky sections, and narrow paths.
Difficultly
Pearl Pass is considered a challenging route, both in terms of driving difficulty and the ruggedness of the terrain. It's important to note that the difficulty of the pass can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, the time of year, and your level of off-road driving experience.
The weather can change rapidly at these elevations, and drivers should be prepared for sudden storms, snowfall, and limited visibility. Due to the rugged terrain and challenging driving conditions, it's important to have a well-maintained and appropriately equipped vehicle, as well as a good understanding of off-road driving techniques.
Access to Pearl Pass is typically limited to the late summer and early fall months when the snow has melted and the road is passable. Depending on snow level and temperature, the pass may remain closed throughout the year due to lack of snowmelt.
Vehicle Recommendations
- 4WD w/low range
- High clearance
If you're interested in finding out more information about Pearl Pass, check out this video from Matt & Cara at Ozark Overland Adventures as they share their experience running it along with Taylor Pass in the same day.
Basic Info
Difficulty
Moderate
Length
20.0 mi
Hightest Elevation
12707 ft
Nearest City
Crested Butte
Website
www.trailsoffroad.com
Categories
Mountains
Views
Off-Road
National Forest
Water Crossings