Trip Highlights:
- Legendary trails: Black Bear Pass, Imogene Pass, Engineer Pass, and Taylor Pass
- San Juan hot spots: Telluride, Ouray, Lake City, Aspen, Glenwood Springs
- Scenic solitude: Wide open meadows and quiet lakes in the Flat Tops
- Craft brews + campfire views: Brewery stops and rustic campsites every night
Welcome to the San Juans
Overview:
We kick things off with introductions and a hearty lunch at Silver Basin Brewing in Montrose. After that, we’ll caravan up a scenic alpine road to our first camp at Alta Lakes, nestled at 11,300 feet with reflective waters and sweeping views of the San Miguel Mountains.
Highlights:
- Scenic drive above Telluride
- Gear check + team orientation
- Optional sunset hike around Alta Lakes
Camp:
Rustic dispersed site at Alta Lakes with ample space and stunning vistas. Expect chilly mountain air and crystal-clear skies for stargazing.
Question of the Day:
What are you hoping to learn or experience most this week?
The San Juan Gauntlet
Overview:
Today is a rite of passage for any serious off-road adventurer. We hit four legendary alpine passes that define Colorado’s high country. From the shelf roads of Ophir Pass to the switchbacks of Black Bear Pass, this is the day you’ll talk about for years.
Trail Distance: ~40 miles
Trail Time: ~8 hours
Trail Rundown:
- Ophir Pass (3/5): A scenic and moderate climb through scree fields, with a tight descent into the Ophir Valley.
- US Basin (2/5): A flower-filled detour with wide-open views—a perfect warmup.
- Black Bear Pass (5/5): This trail needs no introduction. Narrow, steep, and exposed—descending into Telluride with the infamous switchbacks and the iconic “steps.”
- Imogene Pass (3/5): Our final ascent for the day climbs to 13,114 ft—the second-highest vehicle pass in Colorado—with endless views from Red Mountain to Sneffels Range.
Stops:
- Lunch: Trail tacos and pints at Telluride Brewing
- Camp: Secluded site near Camp Bird Mine, a historic location just below Yankee Boy Basin
Challenge:
Spot the first marmot and name your trail crew’s unofficial mascot.
Peaks, Basins, and Brews
Overview:
We dig deeper into the San Juans today, with a morning run through Yankee Boy Basin, one of the most photogenic places in Colorado. From there, we’ll tackle the rugged and rocky Engineer Pass, dropping into historic Lake City by sunset.
Trail Distance: ~40 miles
Trail Time: ~8 hours
Trail Rundown:
- Yankee Boy Basin (3/5): Lush alpine meadows, waterfalls, and 13ers all around. A slow scenic start.
- Engineer Pass (4/5): Technical and rocky with jaw-dropping exposure—this pass rewards careful driving with insane views of the Uncompahgre Plateau.
Stops:
- Lunch: Burgers and brews at Ouray Brewing Co., rooftop optional
- Dinner: Packer’s Saloon & Cannibal Grill. for craft beer and locally sourced eats
- Camp: Lakeside at Lake San Cristobal, the second-largest natural lake in Colorado
Evening Activity:
Campfire circle + lake reflections—literally and figuratively.
Into the Gunnison Backcountry
Overview:
We leave the sharp peaks behind and enter a new landscape of rolling meadows, high ridges, and geothermal treasures. This leg is all about scenic cruising with a few moderate climbs and the welcome reward of hot springs.
Trail Distance: ~100 miles
Trail Time: ~7 hours
Trail Rundown:
- Los Pinos-Cebolla Pass (2/5): Big views and a gentle climb through the Gunnison backcountry.
- Table Top Road (2/5): A lesser-traveled connector with open range and solitude.
- Waunita Pass + Cumberland Pass (2/5 each): Gravel-covered climbs with some switchbacks, but nothing too technical. Historic mining relics dot the landscape.
Stops:
- Lunch: Soak + sandwich at Waunita Hot Springs Ranch
- Camp: Waterside camp at Taylor Park Reservoir, with a backdrop of the Collegiate Peaks
Pro Tip:
Fly rods welcome—Taylor River is a top trout fishery.
High Pass to Aspen
Overview:
Today we charge up Taylor Pass, a tough climb with loose rock and steep grades—one of the more challenging routes of the trip. From there, we drop into Aspen via Castle Creek Road, cruise the pavement briefly, and make our way into the Flat Tops.
Trail Distance: ~100 miles
Trail Time: ~8 hours
Trail Rundown:
- Taylor River Trail (1/5): Gentle wake-up cruise
- Taylor Pass (5/5): Loose, rocky, and steep. Good spotters make all the difference.
- Castle Creek Road (1/5): Smooth dirt descent into Aspen—cue the contrast from remote backcountry to mountain luxe.
Stops:
- Lunch: Trailside under alpine pines
- Brew Stop: Aspen Brewing Company
- Camp: Remote site near Lyons Gulch, gateway to the Flat Tops Wilderness
Reflection Prompt:
What was your biggest moment of challenge or pride today?
Into the Flat Tops
Overview:
Our final day delivers sweeping views, wide plateaus, and one of the least-traveled trail systems in the state. You’ll understand why this region is so beloved by locals who prefer fewer crowds and bigger skies.
Trail Distance: ~50 miles
Trail Time: ~7 hours
Trail Rundown:
- Coffee Pot Road (2/5): Winding climb into the Flat Tops, with pullouts for big views.
- Heart Lake: Optional hike to this alpine gem—camera essential.
- Transfer Trail (4/5): A historic wagon route with switchbacks, narrow ledges, and commanding overlooks of the Glenwood Canyon.
Stops:
- Dinner: Cap the week at Casey Brewing & Blending in Glenwood Springs
- Lodging: Hotel or dispersed camp
Farewell Thought:
How did the journey change you—or your connection with your vehicle and crew?
This route combines extreme technical terrain, high-elevation exposure, creek crossings, and remote overland travel. Your vehicle needs to be more than trail-capable—it must be self-reliant and prepared for six days of rugged use without support services.
Required Vehicle Capabilities
You must have all of the following to participate:
1. 4WD with Low Range
- AWD or part-time 4WD without low range will not be sufficient for sections like Black Bear or Taylor Pass.
2. Minimum 33″ All-Terrain Tires
- 35″+ preferred for ground clearance
- Tires should be <50% worn with strong sidewalls
3. Skid Plates and Rock Sliders
- Factory protection is not enough for trail sections like Imogene or Transfer Trail
- Must cover oil pan, transfer case, fuel tank
4. Front and Rear Recovery Points
- Rated hooks or shackles
- No bolted-on bumpers without tow-rated recovery
5. Working Winch (9,000+ lbs capacity)
- Required due to the risk of off-camber recoveries on narrow alpine trails
- Bring a winch line dampener, gloves, and synthetic rope preferred
6. Suspension Lift (2–3″)
- To maintain clearance over rocks and deep ruts
- Coilovers or heavy-duty shocks recommended
7. Full-Size Spare Tire and Tire Repair Kit
- Plug kit, valve core tool, compressor
- Trail tire changes must be done without road-side support
8. Onboard Air System or Portable Compressor
- You’ll air down daily for trail grip, and need to air back up for transfers
9. Two-Way Radio (GMRS or HAM)
- Required for trail comms and group coordination
- Handheld radios okay for passengers, base units preferred for drivers
10. Minimum Fuel Range: 175 miles
- There are long gaps between fuel stations
- Jerry cans optional but encouraged if your tank is <22 gallons
Recommended Add-Ons for Comfort and Safety
These aren’t mandatory, but they’ll significantly improve your trip experience:
- Roof Rack or Secure Cargo Storage
For tents, gear bins, recovery gear - Dual Battery System or Portable Power Station
If running a fridge, lights, or other electronics at camp - Fridge or Cooler + Food Storage
Bears are active in several zones—hard-sided containers are a must - Awning or Shade Setup
Midday trail lunches in exposed terrain call for cover - Water Storage (Minimum 2 gallons/person/day)
Filtered refills may not be available until Day 5 - Fire Extinguisher + First Aid Kit
Easily accessible inside the vehicle - Traction Boards
Optional but helpful in loose rock or snow patches in shaded basins
Vehicle Types That Are Well-Suited
- Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner, Land Cruiser (80/100/200 series), GX460/GX470
- Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Gladiator
- Ford Bronco (Sasquatch or equivalent package)
- Land Rover Defender (equipped with recovery gear)
- Chevy Colorado ZR2
- Lexus LX470/LX570
- Nissan Xterra or Frontier (built appropriately)
Not Allowed
- AWD crossovers or Subarus
- Full-size long wheelbase vans or RVs
- Vehicles without 4-Low
- Bald tires, no recovery points, or no spare
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, send over your build specs or photos. We’ll help you confirm fit before you commit.