Owl Creek Pass

Connects with US 50.

Wildflowers and Turret Ridge along Owl Creek Pass Road near Ridgway, Colorado.
Wildflowers and Turret Ridge

How to get there:

From US550/6th St in Ouray, drive north 12 miles to CR10 and turn east. (1.8 miles past SH62 in Ridgway)

  • From Ouray to CR10
  • 12 miles 15 mins
  • GPS
  • US-550/CR 10
  • 38.1740 -107.7421

In General: ATVs Allowed - Check RegulationsHigh Clearance RequiredCampgroundFishing Available Seasonal Closure

  • Length: 41 miles
  • Driving Time: min. 2 hrs 20 mins

In good conditions, this easy dirt and gravel road can be driven by most passenger vehicles. It will take you up and through the Uncompahgre NF, crest Owl Creek Pass at 10,114 ft, pass Silver Jack Reservoir, and end at US-50 2.5 miles east of Cimarron.

Photo Ops:VistasFall ColorsWildlifewildflowers

The drive from Ouray to Ridgway along the Uncompahgre river is quite scenic and it’s common to spot elk in this stretch.

Particularly appealing in late summer or early fall, when the aspens are turning. Great views of high and jagged Cimarron Ridge, the 12,152-foot monolith of Courthouse Mountain and 11,781-foot Chimney Rock. Just east of the pass, CR 860 leads to some nice views of Turret Ridge and dispersed camping spots. Silver Jack Reservoir is nestled in an aspen forest and makes a great photo op when the leaves are turning.

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