La Veta Pass

4.3/5 (5 reviews)
Experience a captivating blend of history and natural splendor along La Veta Pass in Southern Colorado. This fascinating trail, which once formed the pinnacle of the 'Railroad Above the Clouds,' offers an intriguing journey through the Sangre De Cristo Mountains at elevations surpassing 9,500 feet.... Read More
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Highlights of La Veta Pass

Altitude Category Icon Altitude
Ghost Town Category Icon Ghost Town
Iconic Category Icon Iconic
Scenic Category Icon Scenic
Highest Elevation
9384 ft
Shape of Trail
Straight Through
Typically Open
Year Round
Best Direction
East
Official Trail Name
La Veta Pass
Nearest Town
La Veta
Nearest Services
La Veta
Management Agency
Colorado Department Of Transportation
District
Costilla‎ / Huerfano Counties

Overview

Experience a captivating blend of history and natural splendor along La Veta Pass in Southern Colorado. This fascinating trail, which once formed the pinnacle of the 'Railroad Above the Clouds,' offers an intriguing journey through the Sangre De Cristo Mountains at elevations surpassing 9,500 feet. The route takes you past Uptop, a historic logging and railroad stop transformed into a monument and lively event venue. Along the way, visible scars from the 2018 Spring Creek Fire—the state's third-largest—add a poignant layer to the landscape. Despite its challenges, the trail serves as a compelling testament to nature's resilience and the enduring impact of history. Don't miss this enriching detour that seamlessly merges Colorado's past and present.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Guide Overview
7 Waypoints
23 Trail Photos
1 Trail Concerns
5 Community Reviews
1 Video
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