Mosquito Pass

4.7/5 (130 reviews)
Mosquito Pass (elevation 13,185'), between Alma and Leadville, Colorado, is among the highest Colorado passes accessible to 4WD vehicles. The views from here are spectacular, especially in early autumn when the valley’s foliage begins to change color. The vibrant gold, amber, and green colors prov... Read More
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Highlights of Mosquito Pass

Altitude Category Icon Altitude
Camping Category Icon Camping
Iconic Category Icon Iconic
Mine Category Icon Mine
Overland Category Icon Overland
Rock Category Icon Rock
Scenic Category Icon Scenic
Highest Elevation
13193 ft
Shape of Trail
Straight Through
Typically Open
07/01 - 12/01
Best Direction
West
Official Trail Name
Park County Road 12/Lake County Road 3
Nearest Town
Leadville
Nearest Services
Leadville
Management Agency
Pike National Forest, Bureau of Land Management
District
Leadville Ranger District, Royal Gorge Field Office

Overview

Mosquito Pass (elevation 13,185'), between Alma and Leadville, Colorado, is among the highest Colorado passes accessible to 4WD vehicles. The views from here are spectacular, especially in early autumn when the valley’s foliage begins to change color. The vibrant gold, amber, and green colors provide a stark contrast to the drab brown stone and paled grasses covering the high treeless ridges. Earlier in the summer, the alpine grasses and wildflowers are spectacular. However, check with the Forest Service District Offices because Mosquito Pass opens late due to snow blocking the road. Pike National Forest/South Park Ranger District (719) 836-2031 San Isabel National Forest/Leadville Ranger District (719) 486-0749

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Guide Overview
12 Waypoints
38 Trail Photos
1 Trail Concerns
130 Community Reviews
1 Video
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