Trail Overview
Boreas Pass is a wide, well-graded gravel road that makes for an easy and scenic drive across the Continental Divide. Suitable for 2WD vehicles throughout, the road poses no obstacles and is one of the more accessible high passes in Colorado. Wildlife sightings are common—particularly moose in the willows—and there are several campsites tucked along the route. A rest area and hiking opportunities can be found near the summit, and a number of offshoot trails branch away from the main road. Because of its approachable nature and beautiful scenery, Boreas Pass is a popular route, especially in summer and fall when the aspens turn golden.
History
The pass follows the route of the old Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad, completed in 1882 to connect Denver with the booming mining towns of Leadville and Breckenridge. At the time, Boreas Pass was one of the highest narrow-gauge rail lines in North America. The railroad grade was later converted into today’s road, with remnants of the original line still visible, including the restored Section House at the summit, once home to railroad workers who battled heavy snows to keep the line open. Scenic highlights include sweeping views of the Tenmile Range, alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, and historic relics scattered along the corridor—making Boreas Pass as rich in history as it is in scenery.
