Ophir black bear pass. Imoge Sep 23, 2025 · Ranger Raptor on Imogene, Black Bear, and Ophir Pass AdventureLab Sep 23, 2025 11 Prev 1 2 3 Next OP Feb 18, 2016 · Ophir Pass/Alta Lakes-Imogene Pass and Black Bear Pass- 3 Day Off-road Adventure Discussion in ' Off-Roading & Trails ' started by RedRunner87, Aug 28, 2016. Turn right onto Camp Bird Road and go 4. Sep 2, 2020 · Ophir Pass is often done in conjunction with either Black Bear Pass or Tomboy-Imogene Pass, as a loop through Telluride and Ophir. 6 miles. Ophir Pass Road is a 15. Explore Black Bear Pass, Colorado’s legendary off-road trail known for its extreme switchbacks, breathtaking views, and high-risk terrain. We normally run Imogene and Black Bear Pass together, making a loop but Black Bear STILL wasn't opened due to extensive trail damage from last Winter. Ophir is pretty mellow, but I never have had the nerve to take the section of Black Bear down into Telluride with any of my GC's. The pass road does include some classic "shelf road" sections with stunning views and the necessity of 4-WD maneuvering, but less “exposed” terrain than Imogene or Black Bear. Brown Mountain – UNKNOWN Brown Mountain is a three-mile-long ridgeline that rises to the East of Ironton Park California Gulch Black Bear Pass Switchbacks located at Black Bear Pass Summit, Ophir, CO 81426 - reviews, ratings, hours, phone number, directions, and more. Link to page Jul 11, 2025 · Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. Nov 9, 2020 · Once on top of Black Bear Pass you will find a few places to park as well as the Black Bear Pass sign. Pearl St. 24 dollars and included showers. The town of Ophir “officially” incorporated when a post office was built in 1878. The town, and the pass bear the name of a biblical mine said to have brought gold to King Solomon. S. A few other trails like Imogene and Ophir passes have some moderate sections, but nothing in comparison to Black Bear Pass. Smart choice? Probably not. Black Bear Pass Duration: 5-6 hours (8am only) Black Bear Road is an advanced trail that crests at Black Bear Pass, elevation 12,840 feet. What do you all think? Our 450s have stock gas tanks. The toll road diminished in popularity when the railroad was laid across the nearby Lizard Head Pass. If you try it, assume you will have some 10 point turns on several switchbacks after the "Steps". There is no room for vehicles to travel in both directions. Black Bear Pass CO connects the summit of Red Mountain Pass to Telluride. Ophir . Ophir Pass is a short, easy and very scenic trail that you an run in just under 2 hours. 🐻 Black Bear Pass (Bottom Section) & Bridalveil Falls: While we didn't tackle the infamous top this time, we ascended the lower portion of Oct 19, 2025 · Black Bear Pass – OFF-LIMITS TO DIFF. Information on the Alpine Loop including Imogene Pass, Black Bear Pass, Ophir Pass, Corkscrew Gulch, etc. San Miguel County This includes the Telluride side of Black Bear Pass, Ophir Pass, Imogene Pass, Last Dollar Pass and other high country roads of San Miguel County Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests offer scenery and an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Over 3,500 miles of trails and routes provide access to areas of rugged beauty and solitude. It has the air lift and Ophir Pass is an easy-going dirt road linking Telluride to Silverton with great views of Lizard Head Wilderness and the red-drenched peaks of Red Mountain Pass. #jeep #jeeplif 38 views, 7 likes, 0 loves, 0 comments, 0 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from All-Terrain Outdoor Military 全地形軍規戶外用品: Ophir & Black Bear Pass - Utah to Sep 10, 2021 · Telluride Outside offers several such 4WD tours that involve driving along old mining roads, like the Imogene Pass, Black Bear Pass, Ophir Pass, and Sunset drive. This time we had the 35" Nitto Terra Grappler G3s and the difference was night and day. The road then descends over a set of infamous switchbacks. Jul 14, 2024 · Last Thursday/Friday I started in Telluride. Black Bear Pass must be driven from east to west because the switchbacks can only be run in this direction. BLACK BEAR IS A JEEP BADGE OF HONOR. Video 1/7 on the Jeep Badge of Honor trails we ran in Colorado, Oregon, and Montana. During the course of our weekend on the trails we had the opportunity to take in the beauty of Clear Lake, travel along Ophir Pass, and enjoy a thrilling excursion along Black Bear Pass. Ophir Pass connects the charming towns of Telluride and Ouray, featuring rugged landscapes, historic mining relics, and expansive valley views. Nov 23, 2021 · There are a few very well known trails in the high country of Western Colorado. The views at the top are spectacular. The most treacherous part of the trail is one-way only into Telluride. The mountains, plateau, and mesa Black Bear Road is the most dangerous 4-wheel drive trail in Colorado. Everyone I met on any trail was very friendly. Aug 22, 2024 · *Black Bear Pass Closure Black Bear Pass will remain closed for the season due to extensive damage caused by a mudslide earlier this Summer. The road will be reopened at 5:00 P. This video covers the first day in Ouray, Colorado 2023. Get trail details, safety tips, camping spots, hotels and vehicle recommendations for this bucket-list 4x4 adventure. It's only a one way trail once you start to get close to the steps and descend down into Telluride. It has the air lift and Jul 23, 2014 · Black Bear Pass gives you this, but the "steps" are bit unnerving unless you really know what you're doing. Sep 23, 2025 · Trail report – Imogene, Black Bear, and Ophir We started with Imogene Pass, dropped into Black Bear Pass, and wrapped with Ophir Pass. I have a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk coming in any day now. Jun 22, 2015 · Current Jeep trail conditions - Jeep Trail Conditions - Switzerland of America Ouray Jeep Tours Heard a report of a Jeep going off the edge of Black Bear Pass today, slid on a snow bank. Climbing to 11,789 feet and passing through both the Uncompahgre National Forest and the San Juan National Forest, Ophir Pass is a spectacular mountain pass that offers alpine views of the upper Ophir Valley and neighboring peaks. The following trails on our to do list: Imogene Ophir Black Bear Pass (if open) Stoney Pass Alpine Loop Animas Forks Engineer Pass Cinnamon Pass Last Dollar Road (maybe) Yankee Boy basin Monument Valley Then Muley Point Anyone have Dec 11, 2024 · San Miguel County High Mountain Pass Status 4 Alerts July 2, 2025 1:45 PM Black Bear Pass is Open Black Bear Pass is now open. Since we visited early in the season, there was still much snow left on the ground and the mountains. There’s one sharp switchback just over the pass, followed by an easy road to the bottom through some beautiful forested areas. Many of the trails are a Mar 8, 2021 · I had a 2010 Jeep Commander with Quadra-Drive II and a 2" lift and 31" tires. Ophir Pass is known for wildflowers and tremendous views of both the Wilson Range and the western Weminuche Mountains. The Black Bear Road crests at Black Bear Pass, elevation 12,840 feet (3,910 m). To my surprise Black Bear Pass connects to Telluride from Red Mountain Pass one-way and is famous for its sheer cliffs and steep switchbacks. Dec 7, 2018 · Over the weekend my wife and I took a overnight camp Trip to Telluride. Alternative to Other Trails – An excellent connector route between Telluride and Silverton, avoiding more challenging trails like Black Bear Pass or Imogene Pass. Last time I was up here in the Raptor it was on stock tires… and let’s just say it wasn’t great. MESSENGER Send a message to learn more SEND MESSAGE Nathan Vaughan and 24 others 25 4 San Miguel County Colorado Road and Bridge Oct 2 San Miguel County Sheriff - Colorado Oct 1 Black Bear Pass is also an advanced trail and a few degrees more difficult than Imogene, so be sure you’re up for the challenge. Black Bear Pass and back via Ophir Pass in the 97’. 4×4 Jeep Trail maps are available in our office. County: San Juan, San Miguel Adopted by: Managed by: San Juan National Forest, Columbine Ranger District Uncompahgre National Forest, Norwood Ranger District 367 S. The descending trail from Ophir Pass is a narrow, shelf-like road. There is ample room for parking at the Pass where there are views into Ingram Basin. See pictures and our review of Black Bear Pass. Beyond Old Ophir is the intersection of CO Hwy 145. Seasonal wildflowers grow thick at higher elevations. #6 Ophir Pass is a convenient and scenic way to get from Silverton to Telluride. Bridal Veil Falls – OPEN The tallest waterfall in the state, a must-see. May 25, 2023 · Hello everyone, I will be heading up to Colorado in August with my club to conquer the following 4 trails over a 3 day weekend. 1 day ago · Black Bear Pass is a favorite among 4x4 trail seekers in Colorado for its heights and incredible views. After driving up Imogene Pass (from the Ouray side), we set up camp at a nearby lake, and then took our adventures to Ophir Pass. Black Bear being a legendary trail and not one to be attempted by the inexperienced. Jul 18, 2023 · We have a weeklong trip to Silverton planned for mid-August. $150 Adults/$130 Kids Oct 25, 2025 · Telluride Offroad Adventures: Ophir & Black Bear Pass - See 547 traveler reviews, 788 candid photos, and great deals for Telluride, CO, at Tripadvisor. The pass was originally used by the Navajo on hunting trips between the San Miguel and Jan 6, 2024 · Poughkeepsie gulch, between California Gulch and Engineer Pass, provides a challenge for those looking for a harder trail — sections will require lockers. Many Jeepers are familiar with the San Juan Mountain range with trails that include the infamous Black Bear Pass and Imogene Pass, Poughkeepsie Gulch, Engineer Pass and Ophir Pass. Ophir Pass was traversed from Silverton by foot and later by wagon when the first toll road open in 1881. Useful for jeeps, 4wds, ATVs, mountain bikes, dirt bikes, snowshoers, hikers and anyone wanting to get out and about in the Colorado Rockies. Is one much harder After just having completed the hair raising trek on Black Bear Pass, our crew headed to Telluride for lunch and then began the climb up Imogene Pass. Fall Colors: Poor - Most of the road is above timberline. Seasonal Beauty – Best visited in fall (September–October) for peak autumn colors and summer (July–August) for ideal camping and hiking conditions. Feb 19, 2025 · The road starts from State Highway 550 at Red Mountain Pass (signed as Forest Road #823) and climbs quickly to Black Bear Pass at 3. Black bear definitely has the pucker factor. We started in Ouray, drove up Imogene and over to Telluride. Navigation: From Ouray, CO head south on US-550 S/3rd St/Main Street for 0. You can get to the summit in about 15 minutes. Wanted to know if imogene pass and ophir pass are similar in difficulty. This pass has been traversed for hundreds of years for many different reasons. Had lunch at Road Conditions State Highway Conditions View state highway conditions. VEHICLES!!! Most difficult trail in Colorado, off-limits to rentals, one-way travel downhill only . Seasonal wildflowers grow thick at higher elevations, and the views of Ophir are beautiful. Click on a trail map to the right for specific tour details, and it will take you directly to that tour for a full description and booking information. Ophir Pass Ophir Pass is an easy-going dirt road linking Telluride to Silverton with great views of Lizard Head Wilderness and the red-drenched peaks of Red Mountain Pass. Slight right onto County Road 26 and go 1. A high mountain pass with an altitude of 3,593 m (11,789ft) above the sea level can be reached by the Forest Road #630 also called Ophir Pass Road. The road descends over a set of infamous switchbacks as it navigates the heights above Telluride. Bridal Veil Road remains open. / jeepingmo We now have merchandise. W. Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton to Telluride. To the west you can connect to Imogene, Ophir and Black Bear passes to get over to Telluride. Black Bear Pass Engineer Pass Imogene Pass Ophir Pass We will have 10 or so Jeeps in our groups, all with extensive offroading experience. Awesome Scenery. Is scenic driving allowed at Black Bear to Ophir OHV Loop? This is a view from after the steps on Black bear pass before you descend 2000ft down the infamous switchbacks and arrive into Telluride, Colorado. Ophir pass also provides some camping opportunities, while Ironton features a convenient and scenic spot right off the highway. 7 km (9. The narrow ledge road isn't that bad. You will pass a sign just prior to the descent stating that the trail is now one-way (downhill only). We stopped at Matterhorn campground and grabbed the last available site. Ophir Pass is nestled in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. Plan your next off-road adventure here. The road passes Bridal Veil Falls Initially the steep trail starts off with switch backs on gravel however it gets increasingly rough until you reach Ophir pass. Explore Black Bear Pass in Colorado with GPS maps, trail conditions, and trail difficulty details. Weather rolled through, surfaces changed, and the Ranger Raptor stayed composed from shelf roads to tight switchbacks. On the way into Telluride you will get great views of Black Bear Pass and Bridal Falls. This is our go-to route during early season (May and June) as it is always the first route to open for travel. It’s often driven in combination with either the Black Bear Pass Road or the Tomboy-Imogene (Imogene Pass) roads to form a long loop drive/ride. Experience the legendary Black Bear Pass with an expert Jeep guide. Posts San Miguel County Colorado Road and Bridge Oct 2 The vehicle has been recovered from Black Bear Pass. We immediately left for Ophir Pass. Went down once years ago in a friend's Wrangler and the switchbacks are really really nasty for a longer-wheelbase rig like the Grand Cherokee. Imogene would be a better option if you still want some challenge. Many require some intense off-roading trails (we’re looking at you, Black Bear Pass). Many were carved by indigenous peoples, early explorers, and miners, and offer an experience that connects users to the land and to the past. Mar 8, 2021 · I had a 2010 Jeep Commander with Quadra-Drive II and a 2" lift and 31" tires. Everytime I do down it, I get sweaty palms, but still a blast. Document containing the latest status of Jeep roads posted under Projects. If you are an off-road enthusiast seeking How long does it take to drive through Ophir Pass in Colorado? It takes about one hour to complete the drive, which offers alpine views of the upper Ophir Valley and neighboring peaks. From here you get views to the east of the Red Mountain Pass area, and to the west toward Telluride (though you can't see the town yet). Beyond which the trail is pretty decent to Ophir village and beyond. Ophir Please visit the Forest Service website for pass and Silverton Area road conditions. Black Bear Pass is a full day must do Jeep tour beginning in Ouray Colorado, ending in Telluride Colorado, and taking guests an an adventure of lifetime. Most of the pass can be considered easy, but there is a rock shelf on the west side of the pass that is narrow and can be difficult for passing. Also, check out the San Juan Jeep Roads Website for real-time information provided by the public. Ill have more pics and stuff later. Mar 13, 2020 · Most roads are well groomed and mild, but Black Bear Pass has some technical sections (spotter recommended). The switchback section coming down into Telluride is one way (down only) for all but 1 day every year. Watch for signs. Highway 550 (between Ouray and Silverton) to Telluride. Are dogs allowed on Black Bear to Ophir OHV Loop? Yes, dogs are allowed on Black Bear to Ophir OHV Loop, but must remain on a leash. I will say that the trail is narrow, and that the turns are extremely tight and sharp. Are we good or does anyone have a better route? Where can I park a truck & trailer in Jul 16, 2012 · Black Bear Pass gained added notoriety and fame with Country singer & former Ouray, Colorado Mayor, C. For further information Apr 16, 2018 · Planning a trip this year for the cobdr in early August. Feb 8, 2021 · TAT goes over Ophir Pass, not Black Bear. This trail starts in Silverton, CO and ends in Telluride. I've been on Imogene and Ophir Pass as well as about a dozen others in the area and Utah. Jan 20, 2025 · Discover the Black Bear Pass OHV Trail: a thrilling off-road adventure with stunning views, switchbacks, and Colorado's rugged beauty. 8 mi) dirt trail that features beautiful wildflowers during the summer. The road then descends into Ingram Basin, past Ingram Lake and the Black Bear Mine. Most people on loaded bikes don't go over Black Bear. Camping Camping near Black Bear Pass offers a variety of options and availability can vary greatly. Sep 23, 2025 · We pointed the Ranger Raptor at Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton and decided to run a few of the big ones – Imogene Pass, Black Bear Pass, and Ophir Pass. Black Bear & Ophir Pass Off-Roading! Experience the legendary Black Bear Pass with an expert Jeep guide. As you descend into Black Bear Pass A safe alternative to the hardcore Black Bear and Imogene four-wheel passes, Last Dollar Road is a scenic and worthwhile trip out of Telluride. It crests at Black Bear Pass at an elevation of 12,840 feet and descends over a set of switchbacks as it navigates the heights above Telluride. There are several guided tours and outfitters in Telluride. The San Juan mountains are in a league of their own, but we’d be lying if we said some of the best views in this area were easy to access. , Norwood, CO 81423 (970)884-2512 (970)327-4261 Summary: Ophir Pass is a historic wagon road that crosses between Lookout Peak and South Lookout Peak, connecting Ophir with Silverton Jul 9, 2025 · Today was black bear pass from silverton to Telluride the ophir from Telluride back to silverton. Alongside Engineer, Poughkeepsie Gulch, Ophir, and Black Bear Pass, this trail is considered a paradise by not only endurance athletes but also skilled Jeep enthusiasts. P. Dec 11, 2024 · San Miguel County High Mountain Pass Status 4 Alerts July 2, 2025 1:45 PM Black Bear Pass is Open Black Bear Pass is now open. Join us on an epic overland adventure as we conquer Black Bear Pass, known as the most dangerous pass in Colorado. Ophir Pass is a great first-timers trail. I want to do Black Bear Pass. Telluride can be a great stop for lunch and sights, it is a very "modern" old town. Oct 16, 2025 · Where is Black Bear to Ophir OHV Loop located? Black Bear to Ophir OHV Loop is a trail located in Uncompahgre National Forest. Imogene Pass, then Black Bear Pass, Ophir Pass, Poughkeepsie Gulch via Mineral Creek, then over to Engineer Pass via California Pass. 7 miles. Travel scenic byways, cross Ophir Pass, and visit Red Mountain Pass, Bridal Veil Falls, with scenic stops for photos before returning to Telluride. Black Bear Pass is a well known off-road trail connecting Red Mountain Pass and Telluride, known for its 12,840 foot summit and tight, cliffside switchbacks. Nov 29, 2020 · There is Ophir Pass and Black Bear Pass out of Telluride, and all the roads around Mount Sneffels west of Ouray. Overall, a fantastic two days. yes, you will probably make it. A cool piece of history nestled in the mountains. Planning Your Drive Black Bear Road is a notorious jeep trail that starts from the 11,018-foot (3,358 m) summit of Red Mountain Pass on U. In Black Bear Pass is ranked #11 out of 11 things to do in Telluride. , Bayfield, CO 81122 1150 Forest St. 2 miles. Our first stop in the area was to secure a campsite for the night. The conversation Camping Camping near Black Bear Pass offers a variety of options and availability can vary greatly. The east side of the pass features numerous pull-offs for camping, with access to mountain biking trails throughout. They are spectacular, and I'll show them to you! Black Bear Pass, officially Forest Service Road 648, is a 12-mile-long dirt road that starts from the 11,018-foot summit of Red Mountain Pass on U. The Mineral Creek area is a popular choice, with great spots early in the season, though later months can bring an influx of RVs. Trail from Ophir pass to the Ophir village is a rocky shelf road with steep downward descent and narrow for a few miles until it reaches the tree line. For those that are Oct 20, 2025 · Black Bear Pass CR16 - Open Bolam Pass – Open Brooklyn Mine Road CR 14 - Open California Pass CR 19- Open Cinnamon Pass CR5 - Open Corkscrew CR11- Open Cunningham Gulch CR4A - Open Engineer Pass CR2 - Open Hotel Draw - Open Hurricane Pass CR10 - Open Lake Emma Basin/ Eureka Gulch - Open Little Giant CR21A - Open Maggie Gulch CR23 - Open Feb 12, 2020 · Animas Forks - CR2 Black Bear Pass Bolam Pass Brooklyn Mine Road California Pass Cinnamon Pass Corkscrew - Top Cunningham Gulch Hurricane Pass Engineer Pass Hotel Draw Lake Emma Basin/ Eureka Gulch Maggie Gulch Minnie Gulch Ophir Pass Picayune / Placer Porphyry Gulch Poughkeepsie Gulch Stoney Pass Oct 1, 2012 · Ophir Pass is a convenient and scenic way to get from Silverton to Telluride. As you descend into Black Bear Pass The reason Black Bear gets an "extreme rating" is the reasonably narrow descent into Telluride. today. Sep 9, 2019 · This was a few weeks ago, my first real offroad trip in the Gladiator. This trail is so important Oct 24, 2025 · Jeep Trail Maps See where our Jeep Tours go, or plan your route with your Jeep rental (except Black Bear Pass). Link to page High Mountain Pass Closures Find out which high mountain passes in San Miguel County are open or closed. Full of gas with the AC on due for some door pins A discussion about a person's experience driving their 99 Yukon on the Black Bear pass in 3 passes, 3 Subarus, and endless memories! Black Bear Pass Ophir Pass Imogene Pass How did the Forester Hybrid handle, you might ask? At high elevations where naturally-aspirated vehicles might be gasping for air, the hybrid just kept asking for more with power to spare even at 13,000ft! Aug 31, 2024 · Colorado Black Bear Pass: Difficulty 4-6 Engineer Pass: Difficulty 5-6 Holy Cross: Difficulty 7-9 Imogene Pass: Difficulty 4-6 Ophir Pass: Difficulty 3-4 Poughkeepsie Gulch: Difficulty 5-7 Florida Tread Lightly Four Wheel Drive Way: Difficulty 1-4 Georgia Beasley Knob OHV: Difficulty 7-9 Indiana Trail #2X: Difficulty 8-9 Trail #3: Difficulty 5-6 Make sure to bring a sweatshirt, rain coat, and change of underwear!Quick snip of Imogene to Ophir to Black Bear Pass ride - Ouray and Telluride, CO area. McCall's song "Black Bear Road", released in 1975. WE TAKE THE DANGEROUS BLACK BEAR PASS FROM OURAY TO TELLURIDE COLORADO. Sep 5, 2022 · Ophir Pass is a convenient and scenic way to get from Silverton to Telluride. Don't know anything more about it. Unlicensed vehicles are allowed on Ophir Pass Road east of the town of Ophir; however, you cannot ride through town. Oct 23, 2025 · Imogene Pass is very enjoyable and very beautiful. We entered Tour Imogene Pass, one of the most popular mountain passes, connecting Telluride to Ouray or explore one of the many other off-road routes such as Bridal Veil Falls, Last Dollar Road, Ophir Pass, Alta Lakes or Black Bear Pass (one way East to West, advanced drivers only). The adventure continues over Black Bear Pass, renowned for its dramatic switchbacks and panoramic overlooks, making it a bucket-list trip for offroading enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In this video we leave Moab, UT and head to the beautiful mountain of Colorado to explore the Ophir Pass trail and tackle the famous Black Bear Pass. M. Jul 12, 2015 · Ophir Pass/Alta Lakes-Imogene Pass and Black Bear Pass- 3 Day Off-road Adventure Discussion in ' Trip Reports ' started by RedRunner87, Aug 25, 2016. Black Bear Road is open by Mother Nature for just a couple of months out of the year, from late summer (usually the last week of July) to early fall. Black Bear Pass is a favorite among 4x4 trail seekers in Colorado for its heights and incredible views. What makes Ophir Pass so special is not only its relatively short length, but the fact that it’s a good bit easier than most of the other trails in the area Nov 24, 2023 · A backdrop as unreal as the many settings of the LOTR trilogy, Imogene Pass is part of the region’s Alpine Loop and among the infamous high-country passes in Western Colorado. Jun 30, 2009 · After lunch & gas in Telluride take Bear Creek trail south untill it turns into Wasatch Trail, take Wasatch Trail to the end ,turn left "east" on Ophir Pass Rd then south on route 550 back to Silverton. The Colorado High Country Pass Page shows the open and closed status of many high country 4wd and jeep trails. Dec 14, 2020 · We wrap up our visit to the Alpine Loop with two iconic passes: Black Bear Pass and Imogene Pass. rxvvq8x bibzl4 vhq88bh ybmvh qgqc j7 95z oeu x1c9of 8j