Alpine Loop
High-altitude mining circuit above the treeline
The Alpine Loop strings together three of Colorado’s most notorious mining passes — Engineer, Cinnamon, and Imogene — in a 63-mile circuit that climbs above treeline into mining ghost town territory. Starting from any of three Victorian mining towns (Silverton, Ouray, or Lake City), the route crosses Engineer Pass at 12,800 feet, where the remains of mining operations still litter the alpine tundra. Imogene Pass pushes even higher at 13,114 feet, making it one of the highest vehicle-accessible passes in North America.
This is moderate to difficult 4WD driving that demands respect for altitude and weather. Stock high-clearance vehicles can handle most sections, but some optional spurs require true 4×4 capability. Weather changes fast above treeline — afternoon thunderstorms can turn dirt roads into slick nightmares. July through September offers the only reliable window when passes stay snow-free. No permits needed, but fuel up in town and carry emergency gear. The payoff is mining history frozen in time and views that justify every steep switchback.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 63 mi / 101.4 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 13114 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Silverton, Colorado |
| Land manager | San Juan National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Jeep Wrangler handle the Alpine Loop without modifications?
Yes — a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle can complete the trail. Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass are the crux sections; stock rigs handle them fine in dry summer conditions, but you'll want decent tires and to know how to use low range.
When does the Alpine Loop actually open and close each year?
Typically July through September, depending on snowpack. Engineer and Cinnamon Passes can hold snow well into June and get socked in again by October. Check with the San Juan National Forest before you go — conditions vary year to year.
Do I need a permit or pay any fees to drive the Alpine Loop?
No permit required and no fee to drive the trail itself. It's managed by San Juan National Forest and BLM lands. If you're camping in dispersed sites, follow Leave No Trace and standard dispersed camping rules — no campfire restrictions unless posted seasonally.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually be ready for?
Engineer Pass at 13,114 feet is the most exposed and technically demanding stretch — narrow shelf road, steep drop-offs, loose rock, and no guardrails. It's not technical crawling, but one bad line or a moment of inattention has consequences. Meeting oncoming traffic on the shelf sections requires patience and sometimes reversing.
Is there any cell service or emergency communication along the route, and how far is the nearest gas?
Cell service is essentially zero for the entire loop — bring a satellite communicator. Fuel up in Silverton, Ouray, or Lake City before heading out; there's nothing in between, and the full loop is 63 miles of remote mountain terrain across 2-3 days.
Trail track
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