Engineer Pass
Engineer Pass is a hard 30 miles off-road trail near Lake City, CO. It requires a properly built 4x4 with All-terrain tires, 4WD required, Skid plates and is best run July - September. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.
Trail Conditions
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A classic San Juan Mountain pass connecting Lake City to Ouray at 12,800 feet. Above-treeline switchbacks traverse alpine tundra with views spanning 100 miles in every direction, making this one of Colorado's most iconic and rewarding off-road experiences.
Fun Facts
Engineer Pass reaches 12,800 feet, one of the highest drivable passes in Colorado.
The pass was a toll road for the mining industry in the 1870s.
Frank Hague Mine ruins near the summit are remarkably well-preserved.
🛞 Tires
⚙️ Drivetrain
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Engineer Pass:
- Alpine Glow Campground · Ouray · 6 mi
- East Portal Campground · Montrose · 39 mi
- South Rim Campground · Montrose · 40 mi
- Elk Creek Campground · Gunnison · 41 mi
Where to Camp
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Lake City, CO
5-Day Forecast
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
This trail rewards preparation. Run these tools before you load up, the numbers matter.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Running 35s or 37s? Confirm fitment and sidewall height before you go.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Low-range crawl ratio is everything on technical terrain, calculate yours first.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.
Trail Matchmaker
Not sure this trail matches your rig's current build? Find out fast.
Answer 6 questions and confirm Engineer Pass is right for your setup, or find a better match.