Hagerman Pass: A Rocky Mountain Crossing

Hagerman Pass is a high-elevation mountain pass that crosses the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. Located on the boundary between Pitkin and Lake counties, the pass sits at an elevation of 11,925 feet (3,635 meters). Originally known as Frying Pan Pass, it served as a foot trail between Leadville and Basalt. In the late 19th century, James J. Hagerman, for whom the pass is named, constructed a railroad to reach the mines of Aspen. The Colorado Midland Railroad initially crossed the Continental Divide through the Hagerman Tunnel and later through the Busk-Ivanhoe Tunnel. The Busk-Ivanhoe Tunnel now serves as a water diversion tunnel, draining Ivanhoe Lake on the west side of the pass into the Arkansas River basin. Today, Hagerman Pass Road (Forest Road 105) traverses much of the old railroad line. The unpaved road is passable by four-wheel-drive vehicles, bicycles, ATVs, or on foot. The road is rough and narrow, with some rocky sections and stream crossings. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. The pass is typically open from late May through late October or early November, depending on snowfall. Hagerman Pass offers spectacular views of Turquoise Lake and the surrounding wilderness areas, including Mount Massive, Hunter-Fryingpan, and Holy Cross. Visitors can also see remnants of the Colorado Midland Railroad, including abandoned tunnels. The area is popular for scenic drives, camping, hiking, and viewing wildflowers and wildlife.