Black Bear Pass

2 Reviews

Location Telluride, CO

Rating Difficult,

Length 10mi

Time 2-3hrs

Guide Trail # 5

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types Defined

Overview

Notoriously narrow switchbacks descend into Telluride.

Incredible views from high above Red Mountain Pass and Telluride. Close-up views of historic mines and dramatic waterfalls. Feel the mist from spectacular Bridal Veil Falls. Road is closed November through May 1. Switchbacks are one-way downhill; no return to start. Unlicensed vehicles should turn around before going down one-way switchbacks or have pick-up vehicle waiting at the bottom.

Rating

Difficult

Trail Ratings Defined

Most of the trail is easy to moderate. The difficult rating is based on a mile-long stretch of dangerous switchbacks above Bridal Veil Falls. Your vehicle should have low-range 4WD, good tires, good brakes, excellent articulation and a fully functional emergency brake.

Stats

Length

10mi

Time

2-3hrs

High Point

12,800ft

Best Time To Go

Spring/Fall

Current Conditions

(970) 327-4261San Juan and Uncompahgre N.F. Call Norwood Ranger District

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Trail Updates

08/29/2023
Submitted by Will
Black Bear is only open on Ouray side it will be closed till next year repairs will not be made till spring, according to the visitor center.

08/13/2022
Submitted by Funtreks
A fresh mudslide blocks the trail. Facebook Post

Reviews

Joel says

This is definitely one of the best trails in the state. I enjoyed it so much I did it 3...See More
Bret says

The trail is being maintained by a local 4x4 club, but the descent from the pass down is still it’s...See More

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Joel says

This is definitely one of the best trails in the state. I enjoyed it so much I did it 3 days in a row back a few years ago. I’ve noticed they maintain the switchbacks every year with a cat so it’s probably not as exciting as it once was but power steering is still a plus 👍🏻

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Bret says

The trail is being maintained by a local 4x4 club, but the descent from the pass down is still it’s flexy, steep self. Ran the trail with a stock JLUR with 33’s and no issues. The narrow canyon with the steep step at the end near the top is closed off.

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