Drive Ophir Pass

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.