Red Hill Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Red Hill Pass is a beautiful mountain pass located in Park County, Colorado. The area is popular for hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, horseback riding, and observing wildlife. In the winter, the pass is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are several trails of varying difficulty levels in the area, making it a great place to explore regardless of your experience level. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing picnic spot, Red Hill Pass has something to offer everyone.

Red Hill Pass, located in Park County, Colorado, is a scenic mountain pass that has been used for centuries by Native Americans and early explorers. The pass gets its name from the red rocks that are found in the area, and it has long been a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The first recorded use of the pass was by Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza in 1776, and since then it has been used by many others to reach the western slope of the Rockies. In recent years, the pass has become a popular spot for camping, picnicking, and wildlife watching. Visitors to Red Hill Pass can enjoy stunning views of the mountains, as well as the chance to see some of Colorado's iconic wildlife.

The best time to visit Red Hill Pass is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and dry. However, visitors should be aware that the area can be crowded during peak season. 

1. If you're planning on doing any hiking, be sure to come prepared with plenty of water and snacks. The altitude can make hiking more challenging than at lower elevations, so it's important to stay hydrated.
2. Wildflowers are plentiful in the springtime, so keep an eye out for colorful blooms while you're exploring the area.
3. Many trails in the park are only accessible by foot, so leave the car behind and explore on foot or bike. Dogs are welcome in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. 
4. There are a few camping sites located within Red Hill Pass, so if you're looking for a more rustic experience, consider spending a night under the stars.
5. Respect wildlife - do not approach or feed any animals you see.8.Pack out all trash, including food scraps and cigarette butts.
6. Start your day early. The early bird catches the best views at Red Hill Pass. Not to mention, it's often cooler in the morning, so you'll be more comfortable hiking or walking around.

1. Red Hill Pass is a high mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding area and  At an elevation of 11,258 feet, it is one of the highest passes in the state.
2. The pass is also a popular destination for hikers and campers, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and solitude of the Rocky Mountains.
3.  In winter, the pass is often covered in snow and ice, making it impassable for cars and trucks.
4. It is named for the red-colored rocks that are found in the area and the area around Red Hill Pass is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions.
5. The pass is located near several hiking trails, including the Tarryall Trail and the Devils Head Trail. 
6. The pass is located within a short drive of several towns, including Bailey and Fairplay. 

Hikers should plan on spending at least 3-4 hours exploring Red Hill Pass. 

From Denver, take I-70 west to the exit for US-40 (Beaver Brook Parkway). Head west on US-40 for about 45 miles until you reach the town of Empire. Just past Empire, turn left onto Front Street. Follow Front Street for about 1 mile until it turns into Red Hill Road. Stay on Red Hill Road for about 8 miles until you reach the sign for Red Hill Pass. The trailhead is on the left side of the road just before the pass. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead, but it fills up quickly on weekends, so arrive early if possible. 

The entrance fee for the pass is $5 per vehicle, and there is a limit of two vehicles per household. The pass is valid for one day, and it provides access to all of the park's amenities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Visitor Center. 

 The pass is open all year round, but the hours vary depending on the season. In the summer, the pass is open from 6 AM to 8 PM, while in the winter it's open from 8 AM to 4 PM. Regardless of the season, though, Red Hill Pass is always worth a visit.