Imogene Pass, Hard 4x4 trail in Ouray to Telluride, CO
    Hard
    Trail
    4.7

    Imogene Pass

    Ouray to Telluride, COSouthwest

    Imogene Pass is a hard 17 miles off-road trail near Ouray to Telluride, CO. It requires a properly built 4x4 with 32"+ all-terrain tires, 4WD with low range, Recovery straps and is best run July - September. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.

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    Imogene Pass connects two of Colorado's most beautiful mountain towns, Ouray and Telluride, via a high-altitude crossing that reaches 13,114 feet. The trail passes through the remarkably preserved ghost town of Tomboy, where mining-era buildings still stand against the alpine backdrop. Unlike Black Bear Pass, Imogene is achievable for most properly equipped 4WD vehicles, though the rocky sections and extreme altitude still demand respect. The summit views encompass endless rows of 13,000 and 14,000-foot peaks, making this one of Colorado's most rewarding drives.

    Fun Facts

    #1

    At 13,114 feet, Imogene Pass is the second-highest drivable pass in Colorado.

    #2

    Tomboy, the ghost town midway up from Telluride, was once home to 1,500 people and had its own newspaper.

    #3

    The pass is named after Imogene Richardson, wife of a mining company executive.

    #4

    A footrace is held each September from Ouray to Telluride via the pass, covering 17 miles with 5,300 feet of climb.

    Length
    17 miles
    Elevation
    9,000 - 13,114 ft
    Best Season
    July - September
    Permit
    Not Required
    13,114 ft summitMining historyScenicTomboy ghost town

    🛞 Tires

    required
    32"+ all-terrain tires

    🔧 Suspension

    recommended
    2"+ lift kit

    ⚙️ Drivetrain

    required
    4WD with low range
    recommended
    Rear locker

    🪢 Recovery

    required
    Recovery straps

    🛡️ Protection

    recommended
    Skid plates

    📦 Other

    required
    Warm layers
    13,114 ft summit is cold
    1
    Ouray Start
    38.0234, -107.6712
    2
    Tomboy Ghost Town
    37.9456, -107.7234
    3
    Summit (13,114 ft)
    37.9375, -107.7187
    4
    Telluride Exit
    37.9378, -107.8112

    Closest campgrounds to Imogene Pass:

    Where to Camp

    GPS Coordinates

    37.9375, -107.7187

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    Map of Ouray to Telluride, CO

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