3 Mountain Passes to Explore in San Juan County

Coal Bank Pass is a high mountain pass located in San Juan County, Colorado. The pass is traversed by a road that connects the town of Silverton with the town of Ouray. The pass is named for the coal deposits that are found in the area. The road over the pass is one of the most scenic drives in Colorado, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The pass is open year-round, but it can be treacherous in winter due to the heavy snowfall.

Molas Pass is a high mountain pass in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The pass is located on the continental divide at an elevation of 10,910 feet above sea level. It is traversed by U.S. Highway 550 between the towns of Silverton and Ouray in Ouray County. The pass is named for the abundance of molas, a type of sunflower, that grow in the area. The pass provides access to the San Juans from the north side and is a popular starting point for hikes into the Weminuche Wilderness.

Stony Pass is a high mountain pass located in San Juan County. The pass is located on the Continental Divide, at an elevation of 12,700 feet. The pass provides access to the San Juan Mountains from the east. The pass is traversed by a gravel road and is popular with off-road vehicles and mountain bikes. There are several camping areas and trailheads located in the vicinity of the pass. In the late 19th century, it became the route of a stagecoach road and later the Silverton Northern Railway.