Weston Pass

Trail Overview

Fantastic trail connecting the nearby towns Fairplay to Leadville. 4WD/AWD is recommended, however, it can be done in a decent 2WD vehicle with good ground clearance. The pass is completely accessible with a small travel trailer as well. Paid Camping is located at Weston Pass campgrounds and also plenty of dispersed camping along the trail within designated fire rings. Small locations may have up to 6 inches of water during spring runoff. There are rocks no larger than 6 inches. There is great hiking in the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness area along the Rich Creek Trailhead. At the summit of Weston Pass, there is a camp open for rental reservation "Weston Pass Hunt".

Photos of Weston Pass

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Difficulty

The trail might have standing water / slight water crossing no deeper than 6 inches during snow melt. There are rocks no larger than 6 inches.

History

In the 1860s and 1870s, Weston Pass was a busy toll road for freight wagons and stagecoaches. At its peak, the road was used by hundreds each day. When the railroads reached Leadville in the early 1880s, use of the road declined rapidly. The numbered wagon-wheel signs along the road are part of an auto tour. A flyer for the tour can be picked up at forest ranger stations in Fairplay and Leadville or download from the Forest Service website.

Technical Rating