Shrine Pass

Total Miles 11.2
Technical Rating
2 Easy
Best Time Summer, Fall, Spring
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Shrine Pass trail photo

Trail Overview

Shrine Pass Road offers an approachable backcountry drive with no major obstacles, making it a favorite for those seeking high-alpine scenery without technical challenges. The road includes some rocky sections, but the route mellows as you approach the summit, providing a comfortable ride for most high-clearance vehicles. Dispersed camping can be found along the way, and several hiking trailheads branch off the pass—many equipped with trailhead restrooms for added convenience. The road eventually connects to Vail Pass off I-70, making it an accessible yet scenic detour.

Photos of Shrine Pass

Difficulty

This trail has no major obstacles, though there are some rocky sections as well as some one-lane sections as well. The rougher terrain is more toward the west than the east.

History

Shrine Pass was once used as the main wagon route between Red Cliff and Vail before modern highways cut through the Rockies. Its name comes from the striking views of Mount of the Holy Cross, a 14,000-foot peak whose snowy cross-shaped couloir is visible from the summit. In summer, the area bursts with colorful wildflowers across open alpine meadows, while fall brings golden groves of aspen along the lower slopes. Panoramic views extend across the Gore Range and the Sawatch Range, offering some of the most picturesque scenery along the I-70 corridor.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

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AJ Fitz
Nov 21, 2025
Open
Kim Canoza
Nov 06, 2025
Open
Stock Land Cruiser, drove from I-70 and exited at Red Cliff. The ride was smooth — a few icy patches, but mostly dusty and got rougher near the end. Saw one car coming from Red Cliff, but he turned back.
Arun S
Sep 27, 2025
Open
I did it in a Tesla model X from I-70 to Red Cliff. Most of the trail is easy, except for the last mile or so close to Red Cliff. It was quite rocky and needs high clearance. I was able to do it because i took it slow and I could raise my Tesla’s air suspension height. Fall colors were peaking and the scenery was absolutely beautiful!
Brent H
Sep 16, 2025
Open
Nice route, Vail Pass to Red Cliff. On down to Leadville there are a few other trails. Nice scenery and places to stop and look around. Several camping spots but most always seem to be taken. A little bumpy in places, scenic non-technical route.
Travis Canfield
Aug 24, 2025
Open
Jon Petrich
Jun 30, 2025
Open
Drove from Red Cliff to I-70. Wildflowers out and some dispersed folks enjoying life. Most folks seemed to stop at the pass / trailhead. Trail fine with an exposed rocky section closer to Red Cliff. Spur trail gates closed off of shrine pass rd.
Mark C
Jun 30, 2025
Open
Logz Rand
Jun 02, 2025
Open
closed and with the rain and the river close I wouldn't stay overnight yet, going to be very beautiful when it opens.
H D
May 20, 2025
Open
Erik Pedersen
Jul 16, 2024
Open
Easy going and very scenic.
Clint Henker
Jul 14, 2024
Open
No frills trail. Go for beginners. People were nice and considerate along the way. Lots of waves and smiles. Scenery was spectacular. Expect to be dusted out if riding ATVs/UTVs or motorcycles.
Bergen Davell
Jul 06, 2024
Open
Steele Sandler
Jul 03, 2024
Open
Pretty standard Shrine Pass conditions. Nothing too crazy or unexpected. Lots of rental cars, but that's to be expected during a holiday week
Brian g
Jun 16, 2024
Open
Eduardo Chacon
May 03, 2024
Open

Shrine Pass Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Shrine Pass Map

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