Ripple Creek Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Ripple Creek Pass is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are many things to do in the area, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The scenery is beautiful, and there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. The Rio Grande River runs through the pass, and there are several trails that follow it. The pass is also home to a number of birds, including eagles and ospreys. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Ripple Creek Pass is definitely worth a visit.

Ripple Creek Pass is located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado. The pass was named after a creek that flows through the area. The first recorded use of the pass was by a group of trappers in 1832. In the 1860s, the pass became an important route for prospectors and miners traveling to the silver and gold fields in South Park. Ripple Creek Pass continued to be used as a transportation route until the early 20th century when the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad built a line through the area. Today, Ripple Creek Pass is popular with hikers, bikers, and campers. The pass is also used by snowmobilers and cross-country skiers in the winter months.

The best time to visit is from late June to early October, when the weather is warm and the leaves are changing color. During this time of year, the pass offers incredible views of alpine meadows blanketed in wildflowers, as well as jagged peaks dusted with snow.

1. Plan your visit for the offseason. Ripple Creek Pass is busiest in the summer, so plan your trip for spring or fall to avoid the crowds.
2. Pack for all weather conditions. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures.
3. Bring plenty of food and water. There are no restaurants at Ripple Creek Pass, so you'll need to pack enough food and water for your entire trip.
4. Leave your valuables at home. There's no need to bring anything that you wouldn't want to lose while hiking or camping.
5. Be respectful of the wildlife. Keep your distance from any animals you see, and never feed them.
6. Follow all signs and trail markers. Don't try to shortcut any trails, as this can damage the fragile ecosystems in the area.
7. Stay on designated roads and trails. Off-road driving is not allowed in Ripple Creek Pass, so stick to the roads and trails when exploring the area.
8. The night sky in Ripple Creek Pass is truly something special - don't miss out on stargazing! Make sure to bring a blanket or sleeping bag for comfort under the stars.
9. Lastly, take some time to simply relax and take in the beauty of Ripple Creek Pass. It's a magical place that you'll never forget!

1. Ripple Creek Pass is located in the San Juan Mountains, just south of the town of Del Norte. The pass sits at an elevation of 12,562 feet (3,831 meters) and is the highest point on the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad. 
2. In the winter, the pass is popular with snowmobilers and cross-country skiers. 
3.  On clear days, the views from the top of Ripple Creek Pass are stunning, with panoramic views of the San Juans and distant peaks such as Mount Sneffels and Culebra Peak. 
4. Ripple Creek Pass is accessible from US Highway 160 and is just a short drive from both Denver and Colorado Springs. 
5. The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad offers scenic rides through Ripple Creek Pass from May to October. 
6.  Ripple Creek Falls, a beautiful waterfall located near the pass, is one of the most popular attractions in the area.
7. The pass was originally used by Native Americans and early settlers to travel between the Rio Grande and San Juan valleys.

The maximum time required to explore Ripple Creek Pass is 3 hours. It may vary depending on your interests. 

There are a few different ways to reach Ripple Creek Pass. One option is to take Highway 145 south from the town of Rico. The drive is about 30 miles and takes you through some stunning scenery, including the San Juan Mountains. Once you reach the pass, you'll have access to hiking trails, fishing, and camping. Another option is to take the Silver Thread Scenic Byway from the town of Creede. This route is a little longer, but it's well worth it for the views. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Ripple Creek Pass. However, there are many opportunities for exploration and recreation within the pass, so a valid Colorado state parks pass is required. 

 It is open year-round, but conditions can vary depending on the time of year. In the winter, the pass may be closed due to heavy snowfall.