Colorado BDR Southern Segment — Chama to Silverton via the San Juan Mountains High Spine

This segment of the Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route links Chama in northern New Mexico north through the San Juan Mountains to Silverton, covering roughly 280 miles of gravel, two-track, and high-alpine 4WD roads. You’ll cross the Continental Divide multiple times, push through the historic mining corridor between Rico and Ouray, and navigate the graded shelf roads above Silverton that give you vertical exposure and views that don’t quit. Key named obstacles include Bolam Pass Road (FR 578), the approach to Hermosa Creek, and the descent into Silverton via Molas Pass vicinity. The route passes through the Carson National Forest, Rio Grande National Forest, and San Juan National Forest — each managing their sections differently, so current road status matters.

A stock 4WD with good all-terrain tyres and 8.5 inches of ground clearance gets you through most of this segment without drama. High-clearance short-wheelbase rigs are better on the tighter switchbacks above Silverton. Fuel up at Chama, Pagosa Springs, and Durango — mid-route options are thin. Best season is mid-July through late September; snow closes the high passes early and without warning into June and again by October. No route-wide permit is required but dispersed camping follows each national forest’s regulations. This segment rewards patience — the scenery from the San Juan high country is some of the most dramatic in the continental US.