Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The pass is also a great place to get on the Continental Divide Trail in summer. Stanley
Mountain (12,521ft) is a 7-mile round-trip hike; from the parking lot, cross the highway to
access the trail.
SCENIC DRIVE
Rollins Pass
(USFS Rd 149; mid-Jun-mid-Nov) A popular though rugged 14-mile 4WD road leads almost
to the top of this 11,660ft pass (now closed), which is famous for its railroad history. In
the mid-1860s, JA Rollins established a toll wagon road over the pass from Nederland and
Rollinsville, and early in the 20th century David H Moffat's Denver, Northwestern & Pa-
cific Railway crossed the Continental Divide here.
First known as Boulder Pass, then Rollins Pass, it also earned the appellation 'Corona'
because railroad workers considered it the crown at the 'top of the world.' Remnants of
the original line (a tunnel and trestle) make it of particular interest to railroad buffs; it's
also a popular ride for experienced mountain bikers .
There's plenty of hiking to do too. The traverse to Rodgers Pass (5 miles round trip) from
the trestle is both mellow and beautiful. From here, you can easily summit the back of
James Peak ( Click here ) .
The turnoff for Rollins Pass is located between the Winter Park resort and town; the
road is extremely rocky and you definitely need 4WD-high clearance. When you reach an
intersection on the way up, keep going straight. Bear in mind that the last couple of miles
probably won't open until July at the earliest because of snowpack.
SNOW SPORTS
Colorado Adventure Park
( http://coloradoadventurepark.com ; 566 County Rd 721; per hr $18; 10am-10pm mid-Dec-Mar) If you or the
kids need a break from skiing, the town's two tubing hills (practically right next to each
other) may be calling your name. This one has a fire pit for parents and runs divided by
difficulty.
Trestle Bike Park
( www.trestlebikepark.com ; day pass adult/child $39/29; mid-Jun-mid-Sep) When the snow melts, Winter
Park turns into Trestle Bike Park, featuring three lifts and over 40 miles of freeride trails
for all levels. You can rent bikes (from $80, including lift ticket and gear) and sign up for
lessons.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
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