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Drive Ophir Pass

Ophir, Colorado

4.5/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

8 miles

Elevation Gain

2500 ft

Route Type

Point-to-Point

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

Explore the remote Old Ophir mining town and the San Juan Mountains via the 4WD-only Forest Road #630, reaching an elevation of 11,814’. 

Ophir Pass (el. 11,114’), officially known as Forest Service Road #630, is one of the easiest of the high alpine trails in the San Juan mountains, but still can provide trouble to the inexperienced or when bad weather is present, particularly on the western/Ophir downhill side. 

The pass and road are typically open only in the summer, and runs between State Highway 145 (near Telluride) and Highway 550 (between Silverton and Ouray). Snow can be present year-round, and afternoon storms are common, so prepare accordingly and take a proper high-clearance 4WD vehicle, or book a tour with a 4WD group like Telluride Outside.

The summit provides access to the Columbine Lakes area, north and South Lookout Peaks, Crystal Lake, in addition to incredible views of Lizard Head, The Ophir Needles, and three fourteeners: Mount Wilson, Wilson Peak, and El Diente.

Ophir Pass is often done in conjunction with either Black Bear Pass or Tomboy-Imogene Pass, as a loop through Telluride and Ophir.

The east side of the pass features numerous pull-offs for camping, with access to mountain biking trails throughout.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Forest
Groups
Lake
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Drive Ophir Pass Reviews

This is a great off road road over a very scenic pass. Most places along the road is wide enough fro traffic both ways, however there is a stretch of about a mile below the summit that is very narrow, loose, and limited in two way traffic. Up hill has the right of way. Slow down and enjoy the views.

It got a little bumpy as we were coming from silverton going to ophir it got a little bumpy at the end. Other than that it was a fun drive I highly recommend doing it with a group of friends and be sure to bring a camera

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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