Mosquito Pass: A Treacherously Beautiful Drive Through Colorado History
Experience a thrilling off-road journey through history on Mosquito Pass, one of Colorado's highest and most scenic mountain passes. Open seasonally to 4x4 vehicles.
Mosquito Pass, one of Colorado's highest mountain passes at 13,185 feet, offers a thrilling off-road adventure steeped in mining history. Connecting Leadville and Fairplay, this challenging route rewards experienced drivers with stunning views and a glimpse into the state's rugged past.
A brief summary to Mosquito Pass
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Check weather conditions and road closures before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly at high altitudes.
- Ensure your vehicle is suitable for the terrain; a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is essential.
- Bring extra supplies, including a spare tire, water, and warm clothing, as services are limited.
- Allow ample time for the drive; the rough road conditions mean slow speeds.
- Be prepared for limited parking at the trailhead and along the route.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Fairplay, follow Colorado Highway 9 north for approximately 4.5 miles to County Road 12 (Mosquito Pass Road). Turn left onto CR12. The unpaved section of Mosquito Pass Road begins shortly after turning off Highway 9. From Leadville, head east on 7th Street, which becomes County Road 3. Continue for roughly 3 miles until the intersection at the Diamond Mine, stay to the north (left) going off the graded two way onto the 4x4 road towards Birds Eye Gulch Road. Be aware that the road is very rough and narrow with steep cliffs. Proceed with caution. There are no fees to access Mosquito Pass.
Discover more about Mosquito Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leadville mining district
8.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Leadville mining district, a unique destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Inn the Clouds Hostel & Inn
9.2 km
Discover the charm of Leadville, CO, at Inn the Clouds Hostel & Inn, your cozy base for mountain adventures and cultural exploration.
Silver King Inn & Suites
9.3 km
Experience the cozy charm of Silver King Inn & Suites in Leadville, Colorado, your perfect base for mountain adventures and scenic getaways.
S.L.umber Yard
9.4 km
Discover the charm and comfort of S.L.umber Yard in Leadville, Colorado, your perfect base for Rocky Mountain adventures and relaxation.
Leadville Railroad
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking scenery of Colorado aboard the historic Leadville Railroad, a unique travel experience through the Rockies.
FREIGHT
9.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of history and modern luxury at FREIGHT, your ideal hotel in Leadville, Colorado for adventures and special events.
Leadville Historic Lofts
9.4 km
Discover the unique blend of history and modern comfort at Leadville Historic Lofts, your perfect retreat in the heart of Colorado's stunning Rocky Mountains.
The Abbey
9.5 km
Discover The Abbey, your cozy inn in Leadville, Colorado, blending rustic charm with modern amenities for an unforgettable stay.
Moe's Original BBQ - Leadville
9.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue in the heart of Leadville, Colorado, where mouthwatering flavors meet a cozy mountain atmosphere.
Mineral 1886
9.7 km
Discover the flavors of Leadville, Colorado at Mineral 1886, a restaurant offering local cuisine in a cozy and inviting setting.
Delaware Hotel
9.8 km
Discover the historic Delaware Hotel in Leadville, Colorado, where charming accommodations meet breathtaking mountain views and rich local history.
Before & After, Coffee & Cocktails
9.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan coffee and craft cocktails at Before & After, Leadville's warm and inviting gathering spot.
Mineral Belt trail
9.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Mineral Belt Trail in Leadville, Colorado, where scenic views and rich mining history come together for a perfect outdoor adventure.
Melanzana Outdoor Clothing
9.8 km
Discover high-quality outdoor clothing at Melanzana in Leadville, Colorado, your go-to shop for adventure gear crafted with sustainability in mind.
Golden Burro Cafe & Lounge
9.8 km
Experience the heart of Leadville at Golden Burro Cafe & Lounge, where comfort food meets a vibrant atmosphere in the Colorado Rockies.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt Sherman
6.4 km
Hike Colorado's Mount Sherman, one of the easiest 14ers, and explore historic mining ruins with stunning views from the summit.
Matchless Mine
7.9 km
Explore a legendary silver mine and the poignant story of Baby Doe Tabor in Leadville, Colorado's historic mining district.
Tabor Home Museum
9.7 km
Explore the preserved home of Silver King Horace Tabor in Leadville, Colorado, and discover the captivating stories of wealth, love, and loss.
Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin
9.7 km
Explore Victorian life in a booming silver town at Leadville's Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin. History, gardens, and stunning mountain views await.
The Leadville Heritage Museum
9.7 km
Discover Leadville's vibrant past at the Heritage Museum: Mining history, Ice Palace replica, and 10th Mountain Division exhibits await!
Tabor Opera House
9.8 km
Experience the grandeur of the Wild West at Leadville's Tabor Opera House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting tours and performances.
Ice Palace Park
9.8 km
Visit Ice Palace Park in Leadville, CO: a peaceful park commemorating the site of the historic, short-lived Leadville Ice Palace from 1896.
National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
9.9 km
Explore the captivating world of mining history at Leadville's National Mining Hall of Fame, the 'Smithsonian of the Rockies'.
House With the Eye Museum
9.9 km
Explore Leadville's history through the all-seeing eye. A unique museum experience filled with artifacts and stories from the past.
Temple Israel Museum
10.0 km
Explore the Jewish heritage of the Wild West in a beautifully restored 1884 frontier synagogue and museum in historic Leadville, Colorado.
Mt Lincoln
10.1 km
Conquer Colorado's majestic Mount Lincoln, the eighth-highest fourteener, for breathtaking views and a rewarding alpine adventure.
Dutch Henry Tubing Hill
11.2 km
Experience winter thrills at Dutch Henry Tubing Hill in Leadville, CO – free sledding, tube rentals, and stunning mountain views!
Montgomery Reservoir
12.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Montgomery Reservoir, a serene lake nestled in the Colorado mountains.
North Star Mountain
13.1 km
Hike to the 13,614-foot summit of North Star Mountain in Colorado for stunning views from the Continental Divide; a challenging but rewarding alpine experience.
Drift Peak
13.9 km
Conquer Drift Peak: A challenging hike near Breckenridge with rewarding panoramic views and a sense of high-altitude solitude.
Essential places to dine
El Mexicano Food Truck
9.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Mexicano Food Truck in Leadville—where every taco tells a story.
MTN Nutrition
9.5 km
Experience wholesome dining at MTN Nutrition in Leadville, CO - where health meets flavor amidst stunning mountain views.
Sabor oaxaqueño
9.6 km
Discover authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Sabor Oaxaqueño in Leadville—where fast food meets rich cultural flavors.
Isabella’s Kitchen
9.6 km
Discover Isabella's Kitchen in Leadville: where comfort food meets local charm amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
La Mina Tacos & Mariscos
9.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at La Mina Tacos & Mariscos in Leadville - where every bite transports you to Mexico.
Wicked Good Pizza: Leadville, CO
9.6 km
Experience the best pizza in Leadville at Wicked Good Pizza - where quality ingredients meet mountain charm.
Taco Bell
9.6 km
Experience delicious Mexican-inspired fast food at Taco Bell in Leadville – where quick bites meet vibrant flavors amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
Subway
9.6 km
Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Leadville – your go-to spot for delicious sandwiches and quick meals amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Wild Bill's Restaurant
9.8 km
Discover delicious hamburgers and American fast food at Wild Bill's Restaurant in scenic Leadville - where great taste meets local charm.
Ridgeview Cafe
11.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Ridgeview Cafe in Leadville, Colorado - where delicious home-cooked meals meet breathtaking mountain views.
Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
12.1 km
Experience exquisite mountain dining at Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, where local flavors meet stunning alpine views.
Mt. Massive Golf Course
15.1 km
Discover unparalleled golfing at Mt. Massive Golf Course in Leadville, Colorado - where breathtaking mountain views meet recreational fun.
Shell
15.4 km
Experience convenience at Shell in Leadville: fuel up while enjoying friendly service and local snacks amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
The Overlook Restaurant
22.3 km
Experience breathtaking mountain views and exquisite Asian cuisine at The Overlook Restaurant in beautiful Breckenridge.
Vista Haus
22.8 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Vista Haus in Breckenridge - where breathtaking views meet delicious cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Precision Peaks
9.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local craftsmanship at Precision Peaks, the charming gift shop in Leadville, Colorado, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Family Dollar
9.5 km
Explore a wide range of affordable products at Family Dollar in Leadville, Colorado, the perfect stop for budget-conscious tourists.
Envios La Pasadita Leadville
9.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Envios La Pasadita, Leadville's premier Mexican grocery store for authentic ingredients and snacks.
Floyd's of Leadville
9.6 km
Discover quality cannabis products in Leadville, CO at Floyd's of Leadville, where expertise meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Mt. Massive Liquors
9.6 km
Explore a unique selection of local and international spirits at Mt. Massive Liquors in Leadville, Colorado, and elevate your travel experience.
Zero Day Coffee
9.7 km
Experience the warmth of community and expertly crafted coffee at Zero Day Coffee in Leadville, Colorado - a perfect pitstop for adventurers.
Leadville Lifestyle
9.7 km
Discover the unique artisan offerings and rich heritage of Leadville at Leadville Lifestyle, your gateway to local treasures in Colorado.
Blueflower Candies & Provisions
9.7 km
Discover the sweet side of Leadville at Blueflower Candies & Provisions, where handcrafted treats meet local charm.
Firehouse General Store
9.8 km
Explore Firehouse General Store in Leadville, Colorado, for unique gifts and local treasures that celebrate the spirit of the Rockies.
Leadville Exchange
9.8 km
Explore Leadville Exchange, a charming consignment shop in Leadville, Colorado, filled with unique vintage treasures and quality pre-loved items.
Blue Vessel Flower Shop
9.8 km
Discover the vibrant artistry of Blue Vessel Flower Shop in Leadville, where blossoms bloom in creative arrangements that capture the beauty of nature.
Gigi's General Store
9.8 km
Explore Gigi's General Store in Leadville, Colorado, for unique handmade crafts and local treasures amidst stunning Rocky Mountain views.
La Victoria Mexican Store & Snacks
9.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at La Victoria Mexican Store & Snacks, your go-to destination for fresh ingredients and delicious snacks in Leadville, Colorado.
Galena Mountain Projects
9.8 km
Discover high-quality outdoor clothing and gear at Galena Mountain Projects in Leadville, Colorado, where adventure awaits around every corner.
City on a Hill Coffee & Espresso
9.8 km
Discover the charm of City on a Hill Coffee & Espresso, where artisanal brews and freshly baked treats await in the heart of Leadville, Colorado.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Manhattan Bar
9.8 km
Experience the charm of Leadville at The Manhattan Bar, where friendly service meets a cozy atmosphere and affordable drinks await.
Scarlet Tavern
9.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Scarlet Tavern in Leadville, Colorado, where craft cocktails and friendly faces await after your mountain adventures.
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
24.3 km
Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.
Base Nine
24.3 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.
Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
24.9 km
Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
24.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
25.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Molly Jacks
25.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
The Absinthe Bar
25.0 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
25.2 km
Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.
Fireside Lounge
25.2 km
Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Prospector
25.3 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
RMU Breckenridge
25.3 km
Discover RMU Breckenridge - The ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts with live music, bike repairs, and a vibrant bar scene in the heart of Colorado!
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
25.4 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
25.6 km
Discover the warmth of The Canteen Tap House and Tavern in Breckenridge, where craft beers and delicious cuisine meet mountain charm and hospitality.
