Stony Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

For outdoor enthusiasts, Stony Pass in San Juan County, Colorado is a paradise. The area offers hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, and more. Hikers can explore miles of trails that wind through the stunning landscape. Mountain bikers can challenge themselves on some of the most technical terrain in the country. Campers can find solitude in one of the many remote campsites. And anglers can cast their lines in search of trout and other fish. No matter what your interests are, Stony Pass has something for you to enjoy. So get out and explore all that this beautiful area has to offer!

Stony Pass is located in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The pass is at an elevation of 12,683 feet (3,861 m) and is traversed by a dirt road. The road was originally built in 1877 for mining purposes and was later improved for vehicle traffic. Today, the pass is used by recreationalists and four-wheel drive enthusiasts.

The first recorded crossing of Stony Pass was made by members of the Hayden Geological Survey in 1874. The surveyors were exploring the San Juans in order to map the area's geology. They named the pass after its rocky terrain. In 1877, a group of miners built a toll road through the pass in order to access mining claims in the area. The road was later improved and became a part of the Silverton Branch of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad.

In recent years, Stony Pass has become popular with recreationists. The pass is traversed by several hiking trails, including the Continental Divide Trail. There are also several campsites located along the road. Due to its high elevation, the pass is usually only open from mid-June to mid-October. However, it can sometimes be closed for longer periods due to snowfall.

The best time to visit Stony Pass is from late June to early October, when the weather is warm and dry. During this time of year, the pass is typically free of snow and ice, making it easier to navigate. However, visitors should be aware that thunderstorms are common in the summer months,

1. Pack plenty of sunscreen and water. The high altitude means that the sun is very strong, so be sure to protect yourself from sunburn.
2. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. There are many hiking trails in the area, so comfortable footwear is a must.
3. If you're visiting in the winter, be prepared for cold weather and lots of snow. Dress warmly and pack extra layers just in case.
4. Make sure to stop at the Visitor Center when you first arrive. They can provide you with maps and information about the area.
5. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, so plan ahead and choose what interests you most. Whether you want to hike, bike, fish, or just relax, there's something for everyone in Stony Pass.
6. Respect the wildlife, as you are visiting their home. 
7. Leave any rocks or plants that you find, as they are part of the natural landscape. 

1. Stony Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado. The pass is located on the Continental Divide, which separates the Pacific and Atlantic drainage basins.
2. Stony Pass receives an average of 300 inches (7.6 meters) of snow each year.
3. In 1873, the Denver & Rio Grande Railway built a tunnel under Stony Pass to avoid the difficult and dangerous conditions on the pass.
4. In 1876, the town of Silverton, Colorado was established at the base of Stony Pass.
5. Stony Pass is located in the San Juan National Forest and is surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness.
6. Today, the Stony Pass Road is popular with off-road enthusiasts and is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in Colorado.

A reasonable estimate would be 3-4 hours for a moderate hike. If you're planning on doing any scrambling or rock climbing, then you should add an extra hour or two to your plan. And of course, if you want to take your time and really savor the experience, then you can easily spend a full day (or more) exploring the area. 

From Ouray, take Highway 550 north for about 12 miles toreach the turnoff for Stony Pass. The road is gravel and can berough in spots, so four-wheel drive is recommended. The passsits at an elevation of 12,700 feet, so it can be snow-coveredand impassable in winter. From the turnoff, it's about sevenmiles to the top of the pass. Along the way, you'll havespectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

There is no entrance fee to explore Stony Pass, San Juan county, Colorado. However, there is a parking fee if you plan on driving to the area.

The pass is open year-round, but the hours of operation vary depending on the season. In the summer, the pass is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. In the winter, the hours are reduced from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During the spring and fall, the hours are 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The pass is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.