Colorado Map

Request Free Visitor Guides

Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway Trail

Basics
Location:
Connects Ouray, Lake City and Silverton in the northern San Juan Mountains
Setting:
Mountainous
Length:
45 to 55 miles
Difficulty:
Intermediate,
Advanced
Aerobic Difficulty:
Difficult
Time To Allow:
Varies (3 to 4 days for entire loop)
Trailhead Elevation:
9000 feet
Elevation Range:
9000 feet to 12500 feet
Elevation Change:
3500 feet
Season:
Mid-Summer to Fall

Description

The Alpine Loop follows jeep roads through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the United States, and was listed by "Outside Magazine" as one of the 10 best rides in the country. This gravel and hardrock road crosses several mountain passes over 12,500 feet above sea level. During the summer months riders can see spectacular displays of alpine wildflowers, while September is the best time to appreciate the changing fall colors. Another attraction is the variety of historic buildings and mines left over from the mining boom of the late 1800s.

Details

Location:
Connects Ouray, Lake City and Silverton in the northern San Juan Mountains
Setting:
Mountainous
Length:
45 to 55 miles
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Advanced
Aerobic Difficulty:
Difficult
Time To Allow:
Varies (3 to 4 days for entire loop)
Trailhead Elevation:
9000
Elevation Range:
9000 feet to 12500
Elevation Change:
3500
Season:
Mid-Summer to Fall
Additional Details:
The Loop can be entered from either Lake City, Silverton, or Ouray. Many side trips are available, but riders must stay on designated routes. Colorado''s Columbine Byway signs clearly mark the route. Most bike riders aim for a mountain pass a day, stopping in the towns at night. Overnight camping is available along portions of the route.

Map + Directions

Colorado Leadville SantaFeCounty-skyscraper

Copyright © 1997 - 2024 The Go Travel Sites. All Rights Reserved and.

Email Page Link

Complete the form below to email this page to a friend or family member's email. You can send yourself an email as well. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. See our full Privacy Policy for details.
:
:
:
 
 
 
:
Copy Yourself on the Email Yes No
:
:

1

Select a Free Visitor Guide below

2

Complete the form to receive your guides by mail

Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Leadville. More Visitor Guides are available in Colorado. Click here to view them all!

Ski Utah Ski Utah Ski Utah
Utah
Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested! You're all set! Complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.