Buffalo Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Buffalo Pass is a great place to explore the outdoors in Routt County, Colorado. There are plenty of things to do in the area, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are also several lakes and streams for fishing and canoeing. In addition, the area is home to several wildlife species, making it a great place for bird watching or wildlife photography. Buffalo Pass is a beautiful place to enjoy the scenery and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Buffalo Pass is a high mountain pass in Routt County, Colorado. The pass is located in the southeastern part of the county, east of the town of Steamboat Springs. Buffalo Pass was originally used by Native Americans as a hunting and trading route. In the early 1800s, the pass was used by settlers moving westward into Colorado. In 1845, an explorer named John C. Fremont become the first person to map the pass. Buffalo Pass became an important transportation route in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad built a line through the pass in 1881, and the Denver, Northwestern & Pacific Railway built a line through the pass in 1909. The two railroads were later consolidated into the Denver & Salt Lake Railroad. Today, Buffalo Pass is primarily used for recreation, and it is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and skiing.

 The best time to visit Buffalo Pass is during the summer months. From late June to early September, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities. During this time, the wildflowers are also in bloom, adding a splash of color to the landscape. However, visitors should be aware that Buffalo Pass can be crowded on weekends and holidays. 

1. Get an early start. The roads to Buffalo Pass open at sunrise, and the trailheads fill up quickly on summer weekends. By starting your hike early, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the peace of the wilderness.
2.  Pack for all weather conditions. Buffalo Pass is known for its unpredictable weather, so be sure to pack layers and rain gear. Even in the middle of summer, snow is not uncommon at higher elevations.
3. Be prepared for wildlife encounters. Buffalo Pass is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, and mountain lions. Be sure to educate yourself on how to safely encounter these animals before heading into the wilderness.
4. Stick to established trails. With over 36 miles of trails, Buffalo Pass has something for everyone. However, it is important to stay on established trails in order to minimize your impact on the environment and avoid getting lost in the wilderness.
5. Be aware of your surroundings . With its steep cliffs and unstable talus slopes, Buffalo Pass is a dangerous place if you're not paying attention to where you are going . Use caution when hiking off-trail and always be aware of your surroundings .

6. mosquitos can be a problem in summer, so bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants if possible.

7. Remember that cell phone reception is often spotty in rural areas like Buffalo Pass. Don't rely on your phone for navigation or communication; make sure you have a paper map as well as a backup plan in case of an emergency .

8. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no restaurants or stores in the area.
    

1. The Buffalo Pass is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, moose, and coyotes.The area is also popular with birdwatchers, as it is home to a variety of birds, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons.
2. The Buffalo Pass is located in the Rocky Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. The area receives an average of 30 inches of snow each year, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders.
4. The Buffalo Pass is accessible via a number of trails, including the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
5.  The Buffalo Pass area was designated as a National Forest in 1908 and now covers nearly 200,000 acres.
6. In addition to its natural beauty, the Buffalo Pass is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Sinks Canyon petroglyphs.

Although it can be done in a day, it is recommended to allow two days to explore Buffalo Pass and the surrounding area. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy all that this scenic area has to offer.

Buffalo Pass is located in Routt County, Colorado. To reach the pass, take Highway 40 west from Steamboat Springs. The road will wind its way through the mountains and eventually come to a fork. Take the left fork, and continue on until you reach the pass. 

There is no fee to explore Buffalo Pass, however there may be areas that require a permit for camping or parking.

The pass is open year-round, but the level of access varies depending on the season. In winter, the pass is generally only accessible to snowmobiles and other winter recreation vehicles. However, in summer and fall, the pass is open to all vehicles.