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Pearl Pass
Gunnison County, Colorado
View this on the Colorado Trailheads Map
Nearby Towns: Crested Butte, Aspen
Nearby Trails: Italian Creek, Taylor Pass, Montezuma Basin
Trail Length: 16.2 miles
Elevation: 9,147 to 12,728 feet
Completing this trail may not be possible during many years because of snow that is very often blocking the trail on the south side of the pass. There also may be snow blocking the north side of the pass. Be sure to check as far ahead of you as possible once you travel above timberline.
There is one section of rock on the north side of the pass that cannot be bypassed. It earns the trail its rating -- otherwise the rest of the trail would be rated quite a bit lower. If you travel from Aspen to Crested Butte the rocky section is uphill and much more difficult than if you start from the Crested Butte side.
If you start from the Aspen side you can also do Taylor Pass first (and maybe even Italian Creek before that). Starting from this side will mean an easy climb to a sign marking Pearl Pass Road. This is also the intersection for the Montezuma Basin trail.
The trail will get rockier and then you will be at the chunky section of rock that makes this trail too difficult for many stock SUVs. It is often wet, making it slippery and tough to climb.
The views are spectacular as you climb to the top. You spend the last bit before the pass well above timberline and on a path made through the rocks. The last climb is steep and narrow.
The top of the pass allows you to see for miles in all directions. It's gorgeous at 12,705 feet.
When you descend from the pass it is narrow and steep on the south side, though not as rocky. You'll weave your way around as you work your way to Crested Butte.
There are a few sections that are muddy and you should know what you are driving into before you go. The mud can be very sticky and thick. Stay on the trail.
There are many water crossings, and one particular crossing can be very deep.
There is a lot of camping on your way out, and this part of the trail is quite long.
Pearl Pass is an incredible trail -- one not to be missed if you are in the area.
Member Reports
Driving Directions From Aspen, head south 13 miles on Castle Creek Road from Highway 82, then turn right following signs for Pearl Pass. From Crested Butte, travel south to turn left on Brush Creek Road just outside of town.
Meeting Places If you start on the Crested Butte side meet at Camp 4 Coffee on 402 1/2 Elk Avenue in Crested Butte. Meet in Aspen if starting from the other side.
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