Yankee Hill Road

Yankee Hill Road offers one of Colorado’s most accessible high-country adventures without the bone-jarring punishment of the harder alpine passes. Starting from the ghost town of Querida near Westcliffe, the route climbs steadily through aspen groves and mining ruins toward the 11,932-foot saddle between Hermit Peak and Yankee Hill. The road surface stays mostly gravel with some rocky sections, making it perfect for moderately capable rigs. About halfway up, you’ll pass the old Bassick Mine workings — good spot to stretch legs and explore the scattered equipment that’s been rusting here since the 1920s.

This is solid intermediate territory that rewards stock high-clearance vehicles, though 4WD helps on the steeper pitches above 10,000 feet. The route’s forgiving nature makes it excellent for newer overlanders wanting to test their skills without committing to expert-level exposure. Best season runs June through October, with spectacular aspen colors in late September. No permits required and dispersed camping is plentiful along the route. The real payoff comes at the top: unobstructed views across the San Luis Valley to the Sangre de Cristo peaks that’ll make you understand why Colorado keeps drawing people back.