Medano Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are plenty of things to do at Medano Pass, Saguache County, Colorado. For starters, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in the beautiful San Luis Valley. There are also several historic sites to explore, including the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Zapata Falls. In addition, Medano Pass is a great place for stargazing. The clear night skies offer excellent views of the stars and planets. Finally, Medano Pass is a great place to relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for adventure or simply hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Medano Pass is sure to please.

Medano Pass is a high mountain pass located in Saguache County, Colorado. The pass is situated on the continental divide between the Great Plains and the San Juan Mountains, at an elevation of 11,990 feet (3,655 m). The pass takes its name from the nearby Medano Creek, which flows into the Rio Grande. Medano Pass has been used by humans for thousands of years, and it is believed to have been first traversed by Native Americans. In more recent history, the pass was used by settlers traveling west during the Colorado Gold Rush. Today, Medano Pass is a popular destination for hikers, backcountry skiers, and mountaineerers. The pass provides stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the San Luis Valley. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep and mountain lions.

There is no bad time to visit Medano Pass, as the scenery is beautiful year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on what you're looking for. If you're hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife, spring is the best time to go, as the animals are active and the vegetation is fresh and green. For stunning fall foliage, visit in October or November. And if you're interested in winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing, December through February is when you'll find the most snow.

1. Start your visit at the Medano Pass Primitive Road, which is located just off Highway 285. This road will take you to the heart of the pass, and it's a great place to begin your exploration.
2. Take some time to hike around the area and take in the stunning scenery. There are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find one that suits your fitness level. Be sure to bring plenty of water, as it can get pretty hot in the summer months.
3. If you're feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at rock climbing? There are many clinics and guides available in the area, so you can learn the basics before tackling some of the tougher routes.
4. Make sure to keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore Medano Pass. deer, bighorn sheep, and even bears have been known to make their home in this part of Colorado.
5. When you're ready to relax, head over to one of the many hot springs in the area. These natural springs are perfect for soothing tired muscles after a long day of hiking or climbing.
6. If you're looking for a challenge, try your hand at mountain biking on one of the many trails in the area. Just be sure to wear proper safety gear and follow all trail markings.

1. Medano Pass is the highest mountain pass in Colorado. The pass is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which are part of the Rocky Mountains.
2. Medano Pass is accessible by car, and it offer stunning views of both the valley below and the mountains above.
3. The pass is located on the Continental Divide, and it's one of only a handful of passes in Colorado that remain open year-round. 
4. In the winter, the pass is popular with cross-country skiers and snowshoers. 
5. The area around Medano Pass is also home to a number of Native American archaeological sites. 

It is recommended that you allow at least two days to explore Medano Pass. This will give you enough time to hike to the top of the pass and enjoy the sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

To reach Medano Pass, begin your journey in the small town of Saguache, located in central Colorado. From Saguache, take County Road T toward the north. After about eight miles, you'll reach a fork in the road. Stay to the left to continue on County Road T, and after another four miles, you'll reach Medano Pass. This scenic route takes you through rolling farmland and stunning mountain vistas. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the view or take a hike. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Medano Pass, Saguache County, Colorado. However, there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. 

The pass is open year-round, weather permitting. However, winter conditions can make driving conditions hazardous, so it is important to check the pass status before attempting to cross.