Argentine Pass, Rocky Mountains Travel Guide

4.8 (36)

Conquer Colorado's highest vehicle-accessible pass for stunning views & a thrilling off-road adventure through historic mining country.

Reach the top of the world on Argentine Pass, a thrilling 4x4 route scaling over 13,200 feet in the Colorado Rockies. This historic pass, once a vital mining road, offers stunning views and a taste of Colorado's rugged past.

A brief summary to Argentine Pass

Colorado, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Argentine Pass.

Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you go, as the pass is only open during the summer months and can be affected by snow.
Ensure your vehicle is a high-clearance 4x4, as the road is rocky and challenging.
Bring layers of clothing, as the weather at 13,000+ feet can change rapidly.
Stay on marked trails and respect the fragile alpine environment.
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services available on the pass.

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Explore Argentine Pass on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Argentine Pass, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Georgetown, follow the signs for Guanella Pass. About 2.5 miles out of Georgetown, look for a small parking lot on the right side of one of the switchbacks; this marks the beginning of Forest Road 248.1, the road to Argentine Pass. The road is rough and requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. There are no fees to access the pass. Parking is available at the top, but it can be limited.

Discover more about Argentine Pass

Argentine Pass, standing at 13,207 feet (4,025 m), is the highest vehicle-accessible mountain pass in Colorado, offering a thrilling journey through the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Located southwest of Georgetown, it straddles the boundary between Clear Creek and Summit counties. Once a bustling toll road for miners in the 1860s, it's now a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views and a touch of history.The pass's history is deeply intertwined with Colorado's silver mining boom. In 1864, silver was discovered on McClellan Mountain, leading to the construction of a toll road over Argentine Pass. This route became a crucial link between Georgetown and the mining camps in the Blue River Valley. The town of Waldorf, established as a rest stop on the east side of the pass, even claimed to have the highest post office in the U.S. at one time.Today, Argentine Pass offers a unique off-roading experience. The road to the pass is unpaved and rocky, requiring a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. The ascent winds through historic mining sites and offers panoramic views of the Continental Divide and surrounding peaks like Grays Peak and Torreys Peak. While vehicle travel is only possible on the eastern side of the pass, the western side provides hiking and mountain biking trails for those seeking a different kind of adventure.Be aware that Argentine Pass is typically open only from late July to early October due to snow. The weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to check conditions before heading out. Despite the challenges, the reward of reaching the summit and witnessing the stunning alpine scenery makes Argentine Pass a truly unforgettable Colorado experience.