Buena Vista to Gypsum – 143 Miles

Just outside Buena Vista, the route follows a sandy two-track road through an OHV area. This stretch features a few photo-worthy water crossings, and a bypass is available when the water levels are too high to cross.

Weston Pass is the first of several passes on this section and offers a multitude of dispersed camping options on either end. Food, lodging and fuel are available in Leadville, a historic mining town and one-time front runner for Colorado’s state capitol. Hagerman Pass is typical of Colorado’s backcountry, offering stunning views of the rugged alpine tundra, and features a small water crossing and challenging rocky descent.

After descending into the Fryingpan River Valley for a short stint on blacktop, the route heads over Crooked Creek Pass. Lime Creek Park has a few primitive camp sites at the base of a steep limestone canyon. Alternatively, ride to the other side of the pass and pay for a spot at Sylvan Lake State Park. Narrow logging and hunting roads will bring you from Sylvan Lake to Gypsum through dense pine and aspen forest groves. There is great camping near Gypsum as well as hotels here and nearby Eagle.