The Top 6 Mountain Passes in the Sawatch Range

Fancy Pass sits at an elevation of roughly 12,500 feet. After a strenuous climb, you take your time to enjoy the impressive panoramic view over the peaks of the Holy Cross Wilderness.

The Monarch Pass climb from the west, starting in Sargents is a classic and scenic road biking ascent on US Highway 50. Over approximately 10 to 11.5 miles, you'll climb … read more

Monarch Pass from the east is a classic road biking ascent on US Highway 50, taking you high into the Sawatch Range towards the Continental Divide. Starting around 8,100 feet, … read more

Hiking along the Continental Divide Trail, you can either shop in the small gift shop at Monarch Pass or hitch into the town of Salida that has to offer everything a hiker could ask for.

Independence Pass sits at an elevation of 12,095 feet and connects the towns of Aspen & Twin Lakes. This is a popular bike route, however there can be heavy traffic on summer weekends, so weekday rides are ideal.

Cottonwood Pass is the high point along the road between Buena Vista and Taylor Park Reservoir. This point on the road is well above treeline and is along the Colorado … read more