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Submission
The Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, can be accessed from either Grant or Georgetown. The south side of the Byway is located on the Pike National Forest/South Platte Ranger District and provides access to several hiking trails: Geneva Creek Trail (#697), Whiteside Trail (#697.A), Threemile Trail (#635), Burning Bear Trail (#601), Abyss Lake Trail (#602) South Park Trail (#600), Rosalie Trail (#603) and Bierstadt Trail (#711). There is also a short interpretive trail with a good viewpoint at the Guanella Pass summit. This is accessed from the west end of the upper/west parking area. Developed campgrounds include Burning Bear and Geneva Park. The north side of the byway is located on the Arapaho National Forest/Clear Creek Ranger District and provides access to hiking trails including Silver Dale Townsite Historic District, and Silver Dollar Lake Trail (#79). Developed campgrounds include Clear Lake and Guanella Pass.
1) Drive west from Denver on US Hwy 285 for approximately 40 miles to Grant. Turn right on to Park County Route 62. Drive north 13.5 miles to Guanella Pass.
2) Drive west from Denver on Interstate 70. Exit at Georgetown. Follow Clear Creek County Route 381 south 11 miles to Guanella Pass.
A beautiful hiking experience in the clean air, pure streams, and blue skies of Colorado! Explore Almo, the highest incorporated city, while you are there! You will see wondrous wildlife! You might see moose, mountain goats, and eagles! A nature enthusiast’s paradise! You can drive on well- kept roads or park and hike according to your ability. Make sure you bring your camera and be prepared to be in awe of God’s amazing creation!!! You will be very happy you came!!! Breathtaking beauty!!!
Beware if you drive up on a weekend. We started on the south end which seemed a lot less crowded than north to south. The road is fully paved and wide enough the whole way to allow traffic on both sides, even with high volume. However, the worst of the worst are out panic parking on switchbacks to get closer to the aspens. Our lane was backed up for an hour because of idiots parking in the road. Two lane traffic had to alternate to get past these cars. I hope those people had the day they deserve. Do not block traffic to park your car. Keep going and you'll find safe parking.
Beautiful drive! We went to look at fall leaves. The weather was perfect.
Never fails to be an incredible drive, hike, fishing and/or camping trip to this area.
Plentiful fauna and amazing flora in the area. Please remember to Leave No Trace and keep a SAFE distance away from and NEVER feed the wildlife.
High mountain pass located in an old logging and mining area in southwest Clear Creek County. 22 miles of scenic byway.
