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, perched at an elevation of 13,185 feet (4,019 meters), is a high mountain pass in the Mosquito Range of central Colorado. It straddles the boundary between Lake and Park counties, linking the historic mining towns of Leadville to the west and Fairplay to the east. The pass also marks the divide between the Arkansas and South Platte Rivers. Originally constructed in the late 1870s, Mosquito Pass Road served as a vital, albeit treacherous, route for stagecoaches, freighters, and wagons heading to Leadville during the silver rush. Its nickname, "The Highway of Frozen Death," reflects the harsh conditions and dangers faced by those who braved its heights. The pass was named after the town of Mosquito. Today, the unpaved road is a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Famed Methodist clergyman Father John Lewis Dyer, known as Father Dyer, was one of the first to cross Mosquito Pass regularly in the 1860s, ministering to remote mining camps. A monument to Father Dyer stands at the summit of the pass. The area is also rich in mining remnants, offering a glimpse into Colorado's silver mining boom. The pass is generally open from July through September, depending on snow conditions. The road to the summit is unpaved and requires a high-clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle due to steep grades, narrow passages, stream crossings, and challenging terrain. Despite the challenges, the panoramic views and historical significance make Mosquito Pass a rewarding destination for adventurous travelers.
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.
A brief summary to Mosquito Pass
- Colorado, US
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.
