Travel Advisory: Black Bear Pass

Black Bear Road is officially known as Forest Service Road 648, and is one of the most notorious off-road trails in the U.S.

Located in southwestern Colorado, Black Bear Pass was originally constructed in the late 1800s to service the Black Bear Mine, which produced gold, silver and lead, and was subsequently reopened for recreational travel in 1959.

The trail starts from the summit of the 11,018-foot Red Mountain Pass on U.S. Highway 550 to Telluride, Colorado. The Black Bear Road crests at Black Bear Pass at an elevation of 12,840 feet. Descending over a set of infamous switchbacks as it navigates the mountainsides above the city of Telluride. The road passes Bridal Veil Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Colorado.

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Navigating “The Steps”—A Notorious Section of Black Bear Pass

Among the many hair-raising features of Black Bear Pass, none strike more fear—or require more skill—than “The Steps.” This infamous portion of the trail is a narrow, off-camber stretch carved into solid rock, often with little more than air and aspens separating your tires from a dramatic drop just inches from the driver’s door.

Here, the road demands absolute attention. The switchbacks are extremely tight and the trail surface becomes rough and uneven, earning its reputation as the pass’s most technically challenging feature. Only short-wheelbase, high-clearance four-wheel drive vehicles should attempt the descent, and even seasoned off-roaders approach with their hearts in their throats.

Drivers cannot afford to gawk at the breathtaking mountain scenery here; focus and steady nerves are paramount to avoid a mishap. This is not a place for overconfidence or distraction—it’s where many a Jeep convoy has slowed to a crawl, and cellphones are used for nervous photos rather than navigation. As the locals say, this is where you think carefully about every move, and maybe, just maybe, switch seats with a braver soul to capture the full experience through your lens.

Trail Difficulty

So, how challenging is Black Bear Pass? On the off-road grading scale, this route earns a solid 6 out of 10, making it moderately difficult. While seasoned wheelers enjoy the thrill, the trail’s narrow ledges, tight turns, and unpredictable weather conditions demand a steady hand and sharp focus. This isn’t your average Sunday drive—drivers should be prepared for a serious adventure, especially once the switchbacks and loose shale put your rig (and your nerves) to the test.

Is Black Bear Pass Suitable for Inexperienced Drivers?

Let’s cut to the chase: Black Bear Pass is not the place for beginners behind the wheel. The trail earns its fearsome reputation thanks in large part to “The Steps”—a challenging section where the road turns into a narrow ledge, leans precariously, and hugs a steep drop-off on the driver’s side.

This stretch features a series of tight, daunting switchbacks, demanding precise maneuvering and steady nerves. Here, a high-clearance, short-wheelbase, four-wheel drive vehicle isn’t just recommended—it’s downright necessary for your safety and for not ending up as a cautionary tale shared over campfire stories.

If you’re tempted to take in the scenery (and the views do belong on a postcard), remember: your undivided attention belongs on the trail. For those new to off-roading, there are plenty of more forgiving options in Colorado to build skills before tackling Black Bear’s notorious challenges.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Black Bear Pass?

On average, most drivers can expect to complete the journey over Black Bear Pass in about 2.5 to 3 hours. This timeframe includes ample opportunities to stop for photos of the breathtaking scenery—think mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and the jaw-dropping shelf roads above Telluride.

Keep in mind, progress on the infamous switchbacks can be slow and careful, especially if you’re taking your time to enjoy the views or waiting for traffic to clear on narrow sections. Plan for a leisurely half-day adventure, allowing for both driving and several memorable stops along the way.

The road is exclusively one-way traffic (down hill), except for during the annual Jeep Jamboree in which the travel is reversed for one day only. It’s only open a few months of the year, from late summer to early fall until the first snow. Travel is not for the faint of heart.

Two people in a Jeep with the top off drive along the cliff of Black Bear Pass.
Photo from telluride.com

Key Safety Tips for Navigating Black Bear Pass

Driving Black Bear Pass is not for the unprepared or faint of heart. Here’s what you need to keep in mind if you’re brave enough to tackle its legendary ledges:

  • Bring the Right Vehicle: Only attempt the pass with a high-clearance, short-wheelbase, four-wheel drive vehicle. This isn’t the place to test your city SUV.
  • Mind ‘The Steps’ and Switchbacks: The infamous stretch known as ‘The Steps’ is a particularly narrow, off-camber section with severe drops on one side—extreme caution here is non-negotiable. Focus on your line and resist the urge to take in the view until you’re safely through the tightest turns.
  • Stay Alert and Go Slow: The steep, loose, and rocky terrain requires patience. Drive deliberately, keep your speed low, and maintain both hands on the wheel. Most accidents here happen when drivers lose focus, especially at the switchbacks.
  • Watch for One-Way Traffic: Pay attention as the route becomes strictly one-way downhill after a certain point. Passing areas are scarce and only get scarcer as you descend—the trail isn’t forgiving if you meet someone coming the other way.
  • Prepare for the Unexpected: Rockfalls, sudden weather changes, and other surprises are all part of the Black Bear experience. It’s wise to check current conditions, convoy with other experienced drivers, and never travel alone in case you need help.

If you respect the trail, understand your limits, and keep your wits about you, Black Bear Pass rewards drivers with Colorado’s finest mountain vistas—provided you keep those eyes glued to the road when it matters most.

Is Black Bear Pass Suitable for Inexperienced Drivers?

Let’s cut to the chase: Black Bear Pass is not the place for beginners behind the wheel. The trail earns its fearsome reputation thanks in large part to “The Steps”—a challenging section where the road turns into a narrow ledge, leans precariously, and hugs a steep drop-off on the driver’s side.

This stretch features a series of tight, daunting switchbacks, demanding precise maneuvering and steady nerves. Here, a high-clearance, short-wheelbase, four-wheel drive vehicle isn’t just recommended—it’s downright necessary for your safety and for not ending up as a cautionary tale shared over campfire stories.

If you’re tempted to take in the scenery (and the views do belong on a postcard), remember: your undivided attention belongs on the trail. For those new to off-roading, there are plenty of more forgiving options in Colorado to build skills before tackling Black Bear’s notorious challenges.

What Vehicles Can Access Black Bear Pass?

Navigating Black Bear Pass isn’t just for any Sunday driver—it requires the right set of wheels and nerves of steel. The trail is open to a variety of off-road vehicles, but with a few important caveats:

  • High-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles such as Jeeps or Toyota 4Runners are the most common choices for safely making the descent, given the trail’s rocky nature and tight switchbacks.
  • Side-by-sides (SxS) with widths up to 60 inches are permitted, providing a more nimble option for the trail’s hairpin turns.
  • ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles), up to 50 inches wide, are also allowed, though riders should use extreme caution due to the exposure and technical difficulty.
  • Dirt bikes are welcome, but only for experienced off-road motorcyclists—this isn’t your average fire road.

Standard passenger vehicles, crossovers, or anything without true off-road credentials are strongly discouraged—even the local marmots wouldn’t dare.

What Vehicles Can Tackle Black Bear Pass?

Not every set of wheels is built for Black Bear Pass. To safely tackle this notorious trail, you’ll need something up to the challenge. Only vehicles with high ground clearance and true off-road capability should attempt the journey. Think rugged 4x4s—like Jeep Wranglers, classic Toyota Land Cruisers, or well-equipped Broncos—plus side-by-sides, ATVs (50″ or narrower), and dirt bikes.

Standard SUVs and crossovers, no matter how brave the driver, have no business here. Make sure your ride matches the road—Black Bear Pass rewards experience, preparation, and the right equipment.

Recent Trail Conditions and User Reports

Curious about what to expect before tackling Black Bear Pass? Here’s the latest from those who’ve recently navigated its twists, turns, and legendary shelf roads:

  • Trail Status: As of early September, Black Bear Pass is open for travel. Conditions have generally been dry and sunny, which is ideal for traction and visibility but expect dust along the route.
  • Driveability: The ascent toward the pass is relatively straightforward and offers sweeping scenic views—don’t forget your camera! However, the descent is where the pulse quickens. Experienced off-roaders report that the infamous switchbacks, narrow ledges, and off-camber steps demand full concentration and a confident hand behind the wheel.
  • Trail Surface: With dry weather prevailing, rocky sections can be loose and traction may be tricky, so lower tire pressures and good spotting are helpful on rougher patches. There have also been notes of the occasional muddy section after rain, but most riders have encountered primarily dusty, dry tracks.
  • Timing: Plan for two to three hours on the trail if you’re pausing for those must-have photo ops at Bridal Veil Falls or along the ridgeline. If traveling mid-day, you’ll typically have clear skies and excellent visibility.
  • Vehicle Recommendations: High-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles are a must, thanks to the rocky steps and unpredictable terrain. While the route is daring, recent travelers say careful attention and patience will reward you with unforgettable views—and a serious sense of accomplishment.

Those who’ve just completed the journey recommend scouting ahead and being ready for adventure. The reward? Panoramic vistas, a healthy dose of adrenaline, and a tale that’s sure to impress around any campfire.

 

 

Editor’s Note: A version of this story originally appeared on treadmagazine.com in February 2018.

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