Guanella Pass: A Rocky Mountain High

Discover breathtaking views, hiking, and history on this scenic byway connecting Georgetown and Grant in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

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Guanella Pass

Guanella Pass is a high mountain pass in central Colorado's Front Range, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and access to historic mining towns. The scenic byway, reaching an elevation of 11,669 feet (3,557 m), connects Georgetown to the north and Grant to the south, showcasing Colorado's diverse ecosystems and providing a glimpse into its rich mining history.

A brief summary to Guanella Pass

Colorado, US

Local tips

Visit during the week or early in the day during summer months to avoid crowds.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.
Bring binoculars to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities.
Check the Guanella Pass Road Information Line (303-679-2312) for seasonal closures and updates.
Park only in designated areas to avoid fines.

Getting There

Driving

Guanella Pass can be approached from either Georgetown (north) or Grant (south). From Denver, take I-70 west to the Georgetown exit (228). Follow the signs for Guanella Pass through Georgetown. From Denver, you can also take US Hwy 285 south to Grant, then turn north onto Park County Route 62. The pass is approximately 11 miles south of Georgetown and 13.5 miles north of Grant. Parking is available in designated areas at the summit and trailheads, but can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot. There are no fees to drive the pass itself, but camping and some attractions along the way may have associated costs.

Discover more about Guanella Pass

Guanella Pass is more than just a road; it's a journey through the heart of the Colorado Rockies. This scenic byway, a paved 22-mile stretch, follows an old wagon trail used by miners in the 1860s, linking the historic towns of Georgetown and Grant. The pass was named in 1953 after Byron Guanella, a road supervisor and commissioner in Clear Creek County for nearly 50 years. As you ascend, the landscape transforms from lush forests of lodgepole pine, spruce, and fir to the unique alpine tundra, where hardy vegetation thrives in harsh conditions. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot bighorn sheep, mule deer, and various bird species. The pass is particularly stunning in the fall when the aspen trees display their vibrant autumn colors. Guanella Pass offers a variety of recreational activities. Hiking trails abound, with options for all skill levels, including access to Mount Bierstadt, a popular fourteener. Camping is available at designated campgrounds and dispersed sites, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty. In winter, the road is closed to vehicular traffic beyond certain points, transforming it into a haven for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The pass also provides a glimpse into Colorado's mining history. Georgetown and Silver Plume, located near the northern end of the pass, are well-preserved Victorian towns that boomed during the silver rush. Visitors can explore historic sites, ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of the early miners.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Colorado Central Mill

10.8 km

Discover the rich mining history of Colorado at the Colorado Central Mill, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District

11.5 km

Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.

Chief Mountain

18.4 km

Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Chief Mountain, a stunning peak in the heart of Colorado's majestic Rockies.

Mestaa’Ėhehe Mountain fire lookout

20.9 km

Experience the stunning views and rich history at Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout in the heart of Colorado.

A & A Historical Horseback Riding

25.4 km

Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!

Veterans Memorial Tunnels

26.2 km

Discover the breathtaking Veterans Memorial Tunnels in Idaho Springs, Colorado, a tribute to veterans and an engineering marvel amidst stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.

St Mary's Glacier Trailhead

26.5 km

Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.

St Mary's Glacier

27.3 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of St. Mary's Glacier in Colorado, a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and connecting with nature.

Hidee Gold Mine Tours and Panning

27.9 km

Discover the legacy of gold mining at Hidee Gold Mine in Central City, Colorado—an engaging journey into history with hands-on gold panning experiences.

Central City Opera House

28.5 km

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Central City Opera House, a historic venue for stunning opera performances amidst Colorado's scenic mountains.

Century Casino & Hotel Central City

28.5 km

Discover the excitement of gaming and the comfort of hospitality at Century Casino & Hotel Central City, a top destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.

Sapphire Point Overlook

28.5 km

Experience unparalleled mountain vistas at Sapphire Point Overlook, a scenic gem in Colorado perfect for hiking, photography, and relaxation.

Country Boy Mine

28.9 km

Discover the rich history of gold mining at Country Boy Mine in Breckenridge, Colorado, where adventure meets the past in a stunning mountain setting.

Staunton State Park

28.9 km

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Staunton State Park, a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado.

The Gilpin Casino

29.5 km

Experience the thrill of gaming and entertainment at The Gilpin Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado, a premier destination for tourists seeking excitement.

Unmissable attractions to see

Mount Bierstadt

3.9 km

Hike Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's most accessible 14,000-foot peaks, offering stunning views and a rewarding challenge for all skill levels.

Mt Bierstadt

3.9 km

Hike Colorado's Mount Bierstadt: A popular and accessible 14,065-foot peak with stunning views, perfect for beginner mountaineers and experienced hikers alike.

Mount Blue Sky

5.8 km

Drive to the top of the world on the highest paved road in North America, with breathtaking views and rich history at every turn.

Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway

5.9 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, where Colorado's natural wonders come alive with stunning vistas and vibrant wildlife.

Summit Lake Park

6.1 km

Discover breathtaking alpine scenery and rare tundra at Summit Lake Park, the highest city park in North America, along Colorado's Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway.

Argentine Pass

7.0 km

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

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

9.7 km

Hike two iconic 14ers in one day, experiencing breathtaking alpine views from the Grays and Torreys Peaks near Silver Plume, Colorado.

Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead

9.7 km

Explore the breathtaking Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead, an outdoor lover's paradise in the heart of Colorado's stunning wilderness.

Grays Peak

10.0 km

Discover the breathtaking heights and stunning landscapes at Grays Peak, a premier hiking destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.

Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot

11.2 km

Experience Colorado's mining history on a scenic narrow-gauge railway between Georgetown and Silver Plume. A historic and family-friendly adventure awaits!

Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

11.4 km

Explore ancient bristlecone pines and alpine beauty at Mount Goliath Natural Area, a unique high-altitude destination near Evergreen, Colorado.

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

Georgetown Loop Railroad

11.8 km

Journey through Colorado's mining history on a vintage train, traversing the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad between Georgetown and Silver Plume.

Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive

12.0 km

Drive to the top of the world on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, offering unparalleled views and alpine adventures in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Echo Lake Park

12.1 km

Discover stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and a peaceful alpine lake at the base of Mount Blue Sky, near Evergreen, Colorado.

Hamill House Museum

12.3 km

Explore 19th-century Victorian life in a silver mining magnate's home at the Hamill House Museum in historic Georgetown, Colorado.

Discover exceptional American cuisine and fine wines at Aurum Food & Wine Breckenridge - where mountain views meet culinary excellence.

Discover the sweet taste of freshly baked cookies at Mountain Top Cookie Shop in Breckenridge, Colorado, where every bite is a delightful experience.

Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.

Gravity Haus Winter Park

36.6 km

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.

Randi's Grill & Pub

37.0 km

Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.

Shakedown Bar

56.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vail at Shakedown Bar, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable memories.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Guanella Pass: A Rocky Mountain High

A brief summary to Guanella Pass

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Unlock the Best of Guanella Pass

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Guanella Pass

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Colorado Central Mill

Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District

Chief Mountain

Mestaa’Ėhehe Mountain fire lookout

A & A Historical Horseback Riding

Veterans Memorial Tunnels

St Mary's Glacier Trailhead

St Mary's Glacier

Hidee Gold Mine Tours and Panning

Central City Opera House

Century Casino & Hotel Central City

Sapphire Point Overlook

Country Boy Mine

Staunton State Park

The Gilpin Casino

Unmissable attractions to see

Mount Bierstadt

Mt Bierstadt

Mount Blue Sky

Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway

Summit Lake Park

Argentine Pass

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead

Grays Peak

Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot

Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center

Georgetown Loop Railroad

Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive

Echo Lake Park

Hamill House Museum

Essential places to dine

Traverse Restaurant & Bar

Soupz On

Oaxacan bites

The Canteen Tap House and Tavern

Blue River Bistro

Tin Plate Pizza

Hearthstone Restaurant

The Carlin Breckenridge

Tavern Underground

Twist

Salt Creek Steakhouse

Rootstalk Breckenridge

Bird and Cow

Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon

Aurum Food & Wine Breckenridge

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Breckenridge Ski & Sport

A Racer's Edge

Lace and Lariat

Breckenridge Shirts & More

Towne Square Mall

Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet

Simply Breck

Slope Style Ski + Bike

The Shop On Main Street

Mountain Tees

Arabella Adventures

Cabin Fever

Arctic Attitude

Shirt Off My Back

Mountain Top Cookie Shop

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Napper Tandy's Irish Pub

RMU Breckenridge

Ski Town Chicken Joint

Prospector

Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards