Hagerman Pass: A Rocky Mountain Crossing
Drive through history on Hagerman Pass, a scenic 4WD route over the Continental Divide with stunning views and a glimpse into Colorado's mining past.
Hagerman Pass, sitting at 11,925 feet, is a high mountain pass on the Continental Divide in central Colorado. Once a railway route, it now offers a scenic, though rugged, 4WD road connecting Leadville and Basalt. Expect stunning views and a glimpse into Colorado's mining past.
A brief summary to Hagerman Pass
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast and road conditions before you go. The pass is typically open from late May to late October, but snow can close it at any time.
- A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended due to the rough and rocky road.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. The elevation is high, and the sun can be intense.
- Be prepared for stream crossings. Depending on the time of year, the water level can be high.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many opportunities for photos and exploring.
Getting There
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Driving
From Leadville, head west on 6th Street, which becomes County Road 4/McWethy Drive. Follow County Road 4 for approximately 5 miles around Turquoise Lake. At a fork in the road, turn left onto Forest Service Road 105 (Hagerman Pass Road). This road is unpaved and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. There are several parking areas along Hagerman Pass Road, including one for the Hagerman Tunnel trailhead. There are no fees or mandatory access costs.
Discover more about Hagerman Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sugar Loaf Dam
9.7 km
Explore Sugar Loaf Dam: A stunning historical landmark offering breathtaking views of Turquoise Lake in Leadville, Colorado.
Turquoise Lake
9.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Turquoise Lake, a stunning natural attraction in Leadville, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Arkansas River Headwaters
12.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Arkansas River Headwaters in Leadville, Colorado, where history meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Rockies.
Pipeline Leadville
12.6 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Pipeline Leadville, a stunning historical landmark surrounded by the majestic beauty of Colorado's mountains.
Rodeway Inn
15.5 km
Discover the charm of Leadville, Colorado, at Rodeway Inn, your budget-friendly hotel surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and rich mining history.
Evergreen Cemetery
15.7 km
Explore Evergreen Cemetery in Leadville, CO, a serene historical site offering stunning views and rich stories of the past.
Mineral Belt Trail
15.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Mineral Belt Trail in Leadville, Colorado—a perfect blend of stunning scenery and rich mining history, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Mountain Hideaway Lodge
16.4 km
Experience the stunning Rocky Mountains at The Mountain Hideaway Lodge, a cozy retreat in Leadville, Colorado, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Governor's Mansion Vacation Rentals
16.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of history and comfort at Governor's Mansion Vacation Rentals in Leadville, Colorado, your gateway to outdoor adventure.
Leadville Visitors Center
16.5 km
Explore the heart of Colorado at the Leadville Visitors Center, your essential resource for adventure and history in the Rocky Mountains.
Route of the Silver Kings
16.5 km
Discover Colorado's fascinating silver mining history along the Route of the Silver Kings, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural heritage.
The Silver Llama Market & Eatery
16.6 km
Discover the flavors of Leadville at The Silver Llama Market & Eatery, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary delights.
Melanzana Outdoor Clothing
16.6 km
Discover high-quality outdoor clothing at Melanzana in Leadville, Colorado, your go-to shop for adventure gear crafted with sustainability in mind.
Treeline Kitchen
16.6 km
Discover Treeline Kitchen in Leadville, Colorado - a culinary haven with locally sourced dishes and stunning mountain views.
Golden Burro Cafe & Lounge
16.6 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
Hagerman Tunnel
1.4 km
Explore a piece of Colorado's railroad history at the Hagerman Tunnel, once the world's highest railroad tunnel, near Leadville.
Mount Massive Wilderness Area
8.2 km
Explore Colorado's stunning alpine wilderness: Hike among towering peaks, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife in the majestic Mount Massive Wilderness.
Dutch Henry Tubing Hill
15.8 km
Experience winter thrills at Dutch Henry Tubing Hill in Leadville, CO – free sledding, tube rentals, and stunning mountain views!
National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
16.4 km
Explore the captivating world of mining history at Leadville's National Mining Hall of Fame, the 'Smithsonian of the Rockies'.
Ice Palace Park
16.5 km
Visit Ice Palace Park in Leadville, CO: a peaceful park commemorating the site of the historic, short-lived Leadville Ice Palace from 1896.
Temple Israel Museum
16.5 km
Explore the Jewish heritage of the Wild West in a beautifully restored 1884 frontier synagogue and museum in historic Leadville, Colorado.
Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin
16.5 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
16.5 km
Discover Leadville's vibrant past at the Heritage Museum: Mining history, Ice Palace replica, and 10th Mountain Division exhibits await!
House With the Eye Museum
16.6 km
Explore Leadville's history through the all-seeing eye. A unique museum experience filled with artifacts and stories from the past.
Mount Elbert
16.7 km
Conquer Colorado's highest peak! Hike Mount Elbert for breathtaking views and a rewarding high-altitude adventure in the Rocky Mountains.
Tabor Home Museum
16.7 km
Explore the preserved home of Silver King Horace Tabor in Leadville, Colorado, and discover the captivating stories of wealth, love, and loss.
Tabor Opera House
16.8 km
Experience the grandeur of the Wild West at Leadville's Tabor Opera House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting tours and performances.
Matchless Mine
18.3 km
Explore a legendary silver mine and the poignant story of Baby Doe Tabor in Leadville, Colorado's historic mining district.
Tennessee Pass
18.4 km
Explore a scenic Colorado mountain pass with a rich history in mining, railroading, and World War II training, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
Independence Pass
18.7 km
Experience breathtaking alpine scenery and historic sites on this seasonal scenic byway connecting Aspen and Twin Lakes, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Mt. Massive Golf Course
11.3 km
Discover unparalleled golfing at Mt. Massive Golf Course in Leadville, Colorado - where breathtaking mountain views meet recreational fun.
Shell
12.5 km
Experience convenience at Shell in Leadville: fuel up while enjoying friendly service and local snacks amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
La Mina Tacos & Mariscos
16.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at La Mina Tacos & Mariscos in Leadville - where every bite transports you to Mexico.
Taco Bell
16.4 km
Experience delicious Mexican-inspired fast food at Taco Bell in Leadville – where quick bites meet vibrant flavors amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
Wicked Good Pizza: Leadville, CO
16.4 km
Experience the best pizza in Leadville at Wicked Good Pizza - where quality ingredients meet mountain charm.
Isabella’s Kitchen
16.4 km
Discover Isabella's Kitchen in Leadville: where comfort food meets local charm amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Sabor oaxaqueño
16.4 km
Discover authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Sabor Oaxaqueño in Leadville—where fast food meets rich cultural flavors.
MTN Nutrition
16.5 km
Experience wholesome dining at MTN Nutrition in Leadville, CO - where health meets flavor amidst stunning mountain views.
El Mexicano Food Truck
16.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Mexicano Food Truck in Leadville—where every taco tells a story.
Subway
16.7 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
16.8 km
Discover delicious hamburgers and American fast food at Wild Bill's Restaurant in scenic Leadville - where great taste meets local charm.
Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
18.2 km
Experience exquisite mountain dining at Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, where local flavors meet stunning alpine views.
Ridgeview Cafe
19.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Ridgeview Cafe in Leadville, Colorado - where delicious home-cooked meals meet breathtaking mountain views.
Jour De Fête
29.9 km
Discover authentic French cuisine in Aspen at Jour De Fête - a delightful bistro serving breakfast, lunch, and freshly baked pastries.
Kenichi Aspen, est 1991
29.9 km
Experience the fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and modern steakhouse elegance at Kenichi Aspen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Green Door Collectibles
16.1 km
Explore a unique assortment of antiques and collectibles at Green Door Collectibles in Leadville, Colorado, where history meets charm.
Tenderfoot Farm
16.1 km
Discover the charm of Tenderfoot Farm in Leadville, Colorado, where local artistry meets sustainability in a delightful shopping experience.
Big R Stores - Leadville
16.4 km
Explore unique fashion and outdoor gear at Big R Stores in Leadville, your one-stop shop for stylish clothing in the heart of Colorado.
McFee Silversmiths
16.4 km
Explore McFee Silversmiths: A Unique Destination for Handcrafted Silver Jewelry in Leadville, Colorado, Showcasing Local Artistry and Heritage.
Grateful Paws
16.5 km
Discover Grateful Paws in Leadville, Colorado – your go-to destination for premium pet supplies, grooming, and a community of pet lovers.
Leadville Lifestyle
16.5 km
Discover the unique artisan offerings and rich heritage of Leadville at Leadville Lifestyle, your gateway to local treasures in Colorado.
Fire On the Mountain
16.6 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Fire On the Mountain, a must-visit pottery store and art center in Leadville, Colorado, showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
Delaware Mercantile
16.6 km
Explore Delaware Mercantile in Leadville, CO: a unique gift shop showcasing local craftsmanship and treasures from the heart of the Rockies.
Alpine Gift Shoppe
16.6 km
Explore Alpine Gift Shoppe for exquisite antiques, unique gifts, and handcrafted furniture in the heart of Leadville, Colorado.
Envios La Pasadita Leadville
16.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Envios La Pasadita, Leadville's premier Mexican grocery store for authentic ingredients and snacks.
Matchless Treasures Thrift Shop
16.6 km
Explore the charm of Leadville with unique finds at Matchless Treasures Thrift Shop - a sustainable shopping experience awaits!
Community Threads
16.6 km
Discover unique treasures at Community Threads, Leadville's charming consignment shop offering vintage clothing and eclectic finds.
Aspen Traders
16.6 km
Discover Aspen Traders in Leadville, a boutique treasure trove featuring exquisite jewelry and local artisan crafts, perfect for every discerning shopper.
Firehouse General Store
16.6 km
Explore Firehouse General Store in Leadville, Colorado, for unique gifts and local treasures that celebrate the spirit of the Rockies.
Two Dog Market
16.6 km
Explore Two Dog Market in Leadville, Colorado for unique gifts, antiques, and local tours that capture the essence of the Rockies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Manhattan Bar
16.6 km
Experience the charm of Leadville at The Manhattan Bar, where friendly service meets a cozy atmosphere and affordable drinks await.
Scarlet Tavern
16.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Scarlet Tavern in Leadville, Colorado, where craft cocktails and friendly faces await after your mountain adventures.
39 Degrees Lounge
30.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at 39 Degrees Lounge in Aspen, where expertly crafted cocktails meet delicious bites in a cozy setting.
Ponyboy Aspen
30.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with a creative drink selection and a lively atmosphere.
Silver City Aspen
30.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Silver City Aspen, a lively bar with live music and sports for unforgettable evenings.
The Wine Bar
30.0 km
Experience the best of wine and culinary delights at The Wine Bar, a cozy gem in Aspen, Colorado, perfect for your next dining adventure.
Escobar Aspen
30.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Escobar Aspen, an unforgettable bar experience nestled in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
J-Bar
30.1 km
Discover J-Bar, Aspen's premier bar offering a stylish ambiance, delicious cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Caribou Club
30.1 km
Experience the elegance of Caribou Club in Aspen, where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Belly Up Aspen
30.1 km
Experience the nightlife at Belly Up Aspen, where world-class live music meets a vibrant atmosphere and delicious pub fare in the heart of Colorado.
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
30.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
The Sterling Aspen
30.2 km
Discover nightlife at The Sterling Aspen, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant events create unforgettable evenings in the heart of Colorado.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
30.3 km
Discover the upscale ambiance and exquisite drinks at Shadow Mountain Lounge, a must-visit bar in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
30.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Hefner Lounge
30.8 km
Indulge in a sophisticated atmosphere at Hefner Lounge, Aspen's premier destination for cocktails and socializing amidst stunning mountain views.