Argentine Pass

Argentine Pass is an epic ride on a dirt roadway over the highest named vehicle access mountain pass in the state of Colorado. With a high elevation of over 13,000 feet, riders will get a true high altitude test riding bikes to this pass. Riders of all ability levels with good aerobic fitness will find a day ride up Argentine an enjoyable way to explore the Front Range of Colorado.

The mileage of Argentine Pass is quite long, almost 20 miles round trip, so riders should be equipped with extra water and food. The roadway follows the historic route for the Argentine Central Railroad and old mines can be seen frequently along its length. Once riders crest Argentine Pass, the downhill back down the roadway is fast, non-technical and welcomed after the long grind uphill.

Views of the surrounding mountains on the Argentine Pass roadway are grand with excellent vistas of Grays Peak to the west and Argentine Peak to the east. Though not suitable for regular vehicle traffic, four wheel drive vehicles are common on Argentine Pass and mountain bike riders should be alert at all times for other users on this roadway.

While riding any trail system it is a great idea to include a repair kit and first aid kit. Argentine Pass is multi-use and hikers, ATV and 4x4 rigs may be seen along the way. Please be considerate on the trails and understand right of way protocol.

Take I-70 to Georgetown and exit at Silver Plume Exit. Park at public restroom on Argentine Street. Ride on Argentine Street through town and watch for signs for Guanella Pass. Climb for about 2 miles into forest. Road will pass a small dam on left. The roadway takes a hairpin turn to the left. There is a forest service road that hangs a right off the roadway at the hairpin. This is FS 248-1 and the Argentine Pass Roadway.