How long is the Alpine Loop?

The BLM lists the main loop at 65 miles. Side routes can turn it into a multi-day trip.

What vehicle do I need for the Alpine Loop?

The BLM manages the loop for high-clearance vehicles. Our record rates it Hard and calls for 4WD with low range and a rear locker, 33-inch or larger mud-terrain tires, a 2 to 3 inch lift, rock sliders and recovery gear.

Do you need a permit for the Alpine Loop?

There is no trail permit, but Colorado OHV registration or OHV use permit stickers apply on designated OHV trails, including for plated vehicles.

Which direction should you drive the Alpine Loop?

The BLM recommends clockwise travel.

Hard

Overlanding

Alpine Loop

Ouray/Silverton, CO•Southwest

The Alpine Loop Back Country Byway is a 65-mile loop in the San Juan Mountains linking Lake City, Silverton and Ouray over Engineer and Cinnamon passes. The BLM manages it for high-clearance vehicles and says the full loop is easily an all-day trip. Our best-season window is July to September.

Trail Conditions

No reports yet

The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is Colorado's premier high-altitude off-road adventure, connecting the historic mining towns of Silverton, Lake City, and Ouray through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America. The 63-mile loop crosses two legendary passes: Engineer Pass (12,800 feet) and Cinnamon Pass (12,620 feet), both offering views that stretch for a hundred miles on clear days. Ghost towns including Animas Forks, Capitol City, and Rose's Cabin provide glimpses into the region's mining past. This is bucket-list Colorado, accessible to most properly equipped 4WD vehicles during the summer season.

Fun Facts

The Alpine Loop reaches elevations over 12,800 feet, among the highest drivable roads in North America.

Animas Forks was once a thriving silver mining town of 450 residents; now only ruins remain.

Engineer Pass got its name from the mining engineers who surveyed the route in the 1870s.

The loop crosses the Continental Divide twice in a single circuit.

Know before you go

Colorado OHV rules: OHVs on designated OHV routes need a current Colorado registration sticker, and plated vehicles must also show a current OHV use permit sticker on designated OHV trails.
Rules of the road: uphill traffic has the right of way, stay on designated routes, and the BLM recommends driving the loop clockwise.
Phones and wireless devices do not work in most of the area, so download or print maps first. Stay out of old mine buildings and openings.

Length

65 miles

Elevation

9,000 - 12,800 ft

Best Season

July - September

Permit

Not Required

Mountain passesGhost townsWildlife12,000+ ft elevation