Hoosier Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Hoosier Pass

Hoosier Pass is a high mountain pass that traverses the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. At an elevation of 11,539 feet, it is the highest paved through pass in the Rockies. The pass is located on the border between Park and Summit counties, about 10 miles west of the town of Breckenridge. It provides the quickest route between Denver and points south, such as Pagosa Springs and Albuquerque.

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Things to Do at Hoosier Pass

 Hoosier Pass is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and scenic vistas. The 120-acre park includes a number of hiking trails that wind through forests and meadows. In addition, the park's elevated location provides stunning views of the South Park Valley and the Continental Divide. Picnic tables and grills are available for visitors who want to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Hoosier Pass is also a popular spot for photography, as the area's natural beauty is truly breathtaking. In addition, Hoosier Pass is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place to go birdwatching or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. 

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History of Hoosier Pass

The history of Hoosier Pass in Park County, Colorado is a long and varied one. Hoosier Pass was originally used as a Native American trading route, and later became an important part of the Pony Express trail. In the early 20th century, the pass was used as a route for the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad. Today, Hoosier Pass is best known as a scenic highway that winds its way through some of Colorado's most beautiful scenery.

Hoosier Pass has been an important transportation corridor for centuries. The pass was originally used by Native Americans as a trade route between the Front Range and the Western Slope. Later, during the 1860s, the pass was used by the Pony Express to deliver mail between Saint Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California. In the early 20th century, the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad used Hoosier Pass to reach the mining boomtowns of Fairplay and Alma. Today, Hoosier Pass is best known as a scenic highway that provides stunning views of the Continental Divide.

Best Time to Visit Hoosier Pass

The best time to visit Hoosier Pass is from mid-July to early September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

Tips for Visiting Hoosier Pass

  1.  If you're looking for an adventure, Hoosier Pass is the perfect place for you. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and the views are simply breathtaking.
  2. Make sure to pack your patience- some of the trails can be quite challenging. But the effort is definitely worth it!
  3. The air can be thin at high altitudes, so take it easy at first and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
  4.  Bring a map. Although the area around Hoosier Pass is relatively small, it's easy to get lost if you don't know where you're going. A map will help you find your way back to the trailhead if you wander off course.
  5. Stay on the trail. There are many beautiful places to explore near Hoosier Pass, but it's important to stay on the designated trails to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystems.
  6. Be considerate of other visitors. Remember that you're sharing the space with other hikers, so be courteous and respectful of their experience as well.
  7. Go whitewater rafting. The whitewater rafting in Park County is some of the best in the country.
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Hoosier Pass

  1. Hoosier Pass is the highest point on the Continental Divide, at an elevation of 11,541 feet.
  2. The pass gets its name from early settlers from Indiana who used it as a shortcut to California.
  3. The flowers that bloom in the meadows near the pass are some of the most beautiful in Colorado.
  4. Hoosier Pass is a great place for stargazing - on a clear night, you can see thousands of stars.
  5. In the winter months, Hoosier Pass is popular with skiers and snowboarders - it's one of the best places in Colorado for powder skiing!
  6. If you're lucky enough to visit Hoosier Pass in the fall, you'll be treated to a dazzling array of colors as the leaves change color.
  7. The Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad completed a rail line over Hoosier Pass in 1879, making it one of the highest railways in North America at the time.
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Hoosier Pass

While it is possible to drive to the top of Hoosier Pass, it is recommended that visitors allow at least a half day to explore the area. 

How to Reach Hoosier Pass

From Denver, take I-70 west for about 100 miles to exit 233 for US-40 east toward Empire. After about 33 miles, turn left at divides Rd, which is just before you reach the town of Empire. Follow Divide Rd for about 7 miles to the Hoosier Pass summit. There is a large parking area on the right side of the road. 

Entrance Fee of Hoosier Pass

The entrance fee for Hoosier Pass, Park County, Colorado is $3 per person or $6 per vehicle. This pass allows you to access the hoosier pass trailhead and the parking lot at the base of the mountain. 

Opening Hours of Hoosier Pass

Hoosier Pass, Park County, Colorado is open all year round. However, the hours of operation vary depending on the season. In winter, the pass is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. In spring and fall, the hours are extended to 6:00 PM. And in summer, the pass is open 24 hours a day.

Attractions Near Hoosier Pass

Montgomery Reservoir

Montgomery Reservoir

1.39km from Hoosier Pass

Montgomery Reservoir is a man-made reservoir in Park County, Colorado. The reservoir was created in 1965 for the purpose of providing water for the town of Fairplay and the surrounding area. The reservoir is fed by the North Fork of the South Platte River and is used for irrigation, recreation, and flood control. Montgomery Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and picnicking. The reservoir is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and deer.

Quandary Peak

Quandary Peak

2.65km from Hoosier Pass

Quandary Peak is the perfect destination for a challenging hike. At 14,265 feet, it is the highest point in the county and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail to the summit is just over seven miles long and gains more than 3,000 feet of elevation. While it is a strenuous hike, it is doable for most people who are prepared for the altitude. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with spectacular scenery and a sense of accomplishment.

Blue Lakes Road

Blue Lakes Road

3.14km from Hoosier Pass

Blue Lakes Road is one of the most popular scenic drives in Summit County, Colorado. The road winds its way through the stunning Blue River Valley, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Along the way, visitors can enjoy a number of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. The road culminates at the spectacular Blue Lakes, a series of glacial lakes that are truly a sight to behold.

North Star Mountain

North Star Mountain

3.55km from Hoosier Pass

North Star Mountain is one of the tallest peaks in the Park County. Standing at an elevation of 14,271 feet, the mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The peak is popular with climbers and hikers, and there are several trails that lead to the summit. In addition to its natural beauty, North Star Mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife. With its towering height and diverse ecosystem, North Star Mountain is a truly remarkable place.

Mount Lincoln

Mount Lincoln

4.36km from Hoosier Pass

Mount Lincoln is the highest point in Park County, Colorado and the fifth highest point in the state of Colorado. The mountain is part of the Mosquito Range and is located in the Pike National Forest. Mount Lincoln has two summits, both of which are over 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) in elevation. The mountain is popular with hikers and climbers and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Lincoln is also home to a variety of wildlife.

Mount Bross

Mount Bross

4.86km from Hoosier Pass

Mount Bross is a mountain peak in the U.S. state of Colorado. It is located in Park County, Colorado, southwest of the town of Alma. Mount Bross has an elevation of 14,197 feet . The mountain was named after Samuel Bross, who surveyed the area in the 1850s. There are two main hiking trails to the summit of Mount Bross. The first trailhead is located at South Park, and the second trailhead is located at Fairplay. Both trails are about 7 miles long and gain approximately 4100 feet in elevation.

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