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Dunckley Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Mountain Passes
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About Dunckley Pass

Dunckley Pass is a high mountain pass in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado. The pass is located on the Continental Divide at an elevation of 12,943 feet. Dunckley Pass is traversed by the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and is a popular destination for backpacking, day hikes, and horseback riding. The pass is also used by off-road vehicles and mountain bikes. Dunckley Pass provides stunning views of the Rio Grande River valley and the surrounding mountains.
Address : Dunckley Pass, Colorado 81638, USA

Things to Do at Dunckley Pass

Dunckley Pass is a beautiful Colorado mountain pass that offers a variety of activities for both locals and visitors. In the winter, the slopes are perfect for skiing and snowboarding, and in the summer, hikers and mountain bikers can enjoy the many trails that wind through the area. There are also several lakes in the area that offer opportunities for fishing, swimming, and canoeing. In addition, Dunckley Pass is home to a number of historical sites, including an old stagecoach stop and a mining town that has been abandoned for over 100 years. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors or just want to explore some of Colorado's history, Dunckley Pass is definitely worth a visit.


Top Activities Near Dunckley Pass

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History of Dunckley Pass

Dunckley Pass is a mountain pass located in Rio Grande County, Colorado. The pass was originally used by the Ute people as a trade route between the Front Range and the San Luis Valley. In the late 19th century, Euro-American settlers began to use the pass for transportation and wagon traffic increased significantly. In order to accommodate this increased traffic, the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad built a narrow gauge railway through the pass in 1879. The railway was later abandoned and replaced by a jeep trail. Today, Dunckley Pass is a popular destination for hikers and campers. The stunning scenery and wildlife make it a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you're looking for an afternoon hike or a week-long camping trip, Dunckley Pass is sure to provide an enjoyable experience.


Best Time to Visit Dunckley Pass

The best time to visit Dunckley Pass is from late spring to early fall. During this time, the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. However, if you're looking for a truly unique experience, visiting during winter can be quite magical. The snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes create a scene that is truly one of a kind. 


Tips for Visiting Dunckley Pass

  1. Be prepared for extreme weather conditions. The temperature can vary widely, and there is little shelter from the sun or wind.
  2.  Respect the privacy of the residents. Most of the land in the park is privately owned. Do not trespass on posted property.
  3. Plan your visit in advance .There is no cell phone coverage in much of the park, so it is important to know your route before you arrive."
  4. Don't forget to pack binoculars - there's some great wildlife spotting to be done.
  5. Respect the natural environment - please don't litter or disturb plants and animals.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Dunckley Pass

  1. The pass is named after William Dunckley, a prospector who discovered gold in the area in 1859. 
  2. The gold rush that followed brought thousands of miners to the area, but it only lasted for a few years.  Today, Dunckley Pass is popular with hikers and campers who come to enjoy the stunning mountain views. 
  3. There are two dozen peaks in the forest that rise to an elevation of more than 14,000 feet (4,267 meters). 
  4. The forest is home to several hundred species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. 
  5. The scenery around Dunckley Pass is stunning, with alpine meadows, forests, and mountain peaks.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Dunckley Pass

The trip from the town of Del Norte to Dunckley Pass takes about two hours. However, visitors should allow at least four hours to explore the area around the pass.


How to Reach Dunckley Pass

To reach the pass, simply take State Highway 149 south from the town of Fairplay. The drive to the pass takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon reaching the pass, there are several pull-offs where you can park your vehicle and enjoy the views. 


Entrance Fee of Dunckley Pass

There is no entrance fee to explore Dunckley Pass, which is located in Rio Grande County, Colorado. However, there may be other fees associated with activities such as camping or picnicking.


Opening Hours of Dunckley Pass

The pass is open all year round, but the hours vary depending on the season. In winter, the pass is only open from 9 AM to 5 PM, while in summer it is open from 6 AM to 10 PM. 


Attractions Near Dunckley Pass

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Vaughan LakeVaughan Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in Rio Blanco County. The lake is situated at an elevation of 8,400 feet and is surrounded by mountains. It is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and camping. Vaughan Lake is home to a variety of fish, including Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Cutthroat Trout. The lake is also a great place to see wildlife, including elk, deer, and birds. Vaughan Lake is a beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends.
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Ripple Creek PassRipple Creek Pass is a mountain pass located in Rio Blanco County. The pass is traversed by U.S. Highway 285 and is located within the Rio Grande National Forest. Ripple Creek Pass summit is at an elevation of 10,752 feet above sea level. The pass lies between South Park and the San Luis Valley and provides a route for wildlife migration between the two areas. It is also popular with recreationists, who come to enjoy the many hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities in the area.
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West Lost LakeWest Lost Lake is a lake located just 28.7 miles from Hayden, in Garfield County. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including cutthroat trout and brook trout here. It is also a good camping location and also there are so many things to see and do.
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Stillwater ReservoirThe 6,700-acre Stillwater Reservoir is located in the western Adirondacks, and provides undeveloped, remote camping on both islands and along the shoreline. Its recreational uses including camping, canoeing, boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. It is one of the iconic attraction and attracts a lot of tourists to here.
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Flat Top MountainFlat Top Mountain is the highest summit of the Flat Tops in the Rocky Mountains of North America.Flattop is widely regarded as the most climbed mountain in Alaska. And while the trail to the summit is rocky and steep, there are a number of loop trails below perfect for beginners or those with physical limitations. The summit of Flat Top Mountain is the highest point in Garfield County, Colorado.
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Trappers LakeThis majestic 302-acre lake is known as the "Cradle of Wilderness" and contains a strain of native cutthroat trout. There is a large camping area and lodge near the lake. The lake is roughly a mile and a half long and half a mile wide reaching depths of 180 feet.

Discover More Attractions in Rio Blanco County, Home of Dunckley Pass

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Rio Blanco County
Rio Blanco County, located in northwestern Colorado, is a popular tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The county is home to several National Parks and Wilderness Areas, as well as numerous ski resorts and hiking trails. In addition to its natural beauty, the county also boasts a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the Ute Indian Museum or take a scenic drive along the Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Rio Blanco County is on

Location of Dunckley Pass


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