Imogene Pass
A high-altitude 4WD pass at 3,976 meters, passing the Tomboy ghost town on the way over to Ouray; the classic off-road route in the San Juan Mountains.
Imogene Pass sits at 3,976 meters (13,114 feet), one of the highest drivable passes in North America. A gravel road links Telluride and Ouray, covering about 28 km in 3–4 hours. From Telluride the road climbs in switchbacks along cliffs, passing the Tomboy ghost town, the ruins of a 19th-century gold mining site. At the summit are old military fortifications and sweeping views of the San Juan peaks. Only high-clearance 4WD vehicles can make the trip, on narrow, steep roads. Beginners are advised to join a local Jeep tour (from about $150 for a half day) or rent an off-road vehicle. Every September there is an Imogene Pass off-road race from Ouray to Telluride. At high altitude, keep warm and watch for altitude sickness.
Opening hours
Jul–Sep (depends on snow)
Nearby sights
- Black Bear Pass
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Telluride Via Ferrata
- Telluride Town Park
- Telluride Historic District
- Bear Creek Trail & Falls
- Sheridan Opera House
- Telluride Historical Museum