Basics
- Location:
- Copper Mountain-Dillon
- Length:
- 14+ miles
- Aerobic Difficulty:
- Moderate-Advanced
- Time To Allow:
- 3+ hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 10000 feet
- Season:
- July-September
Description
A ride on the Searle Pass section of the Colorado Trail gives riders in the Summit County area a taste of what the 400+ mile trail has to offer. Searle Pass trail climbs through open forest into high elevation Tundra as it approaches the saddle of Searle Pass at almost 12,500 feet. This ride is a searing experience on the lungs and riders should factor in the elevation when deciding how long the ride will actually take.
Searle Pass trail passes historic mining shacks, relics of the mineral rush of the area in the late 1800’s as it traverses through meadow and hanging valleys. Views of the surrounding peaks are impressive and riders have the option once at Searle Pass to either head down the same way or continue on to Kokomo Pass or Tennessee Pass for an additional grind.
Details
Location:
Length:
Difficulty:
Aerobic Difficulty:
Time To Allow:
Varies due to aerobic fitness and skill level
Trailhead Elevation:
All high altitude
Season:
Additional Details:
The Searle Pass Section of the Colorado Trail is multi-use so riders may encounter hikers, trail runners, and other users and should follow right of way protocol when meeting other groups. Searle Pass is located within high elevation terrain and sudden weather shifts are possible; riders should bring appropriate warm layers in anticipation of this. In addition, riders should be prepared with a stocked repair kit and a first aid kit. In addition, the elevation for riding here is quite high so riders should factor in the elevation when estimating how long the ride will take.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Copper Mountain, take Copper Mountain Road through the resort. Turn right on Beeler Place and park in the lot. Ride from here, following signs.
