Is Black Bear Pass open?
US 550 (Red Mountain Pass) → Telluride · 12,840′ · Extreme — experts only. Typically open July 15 to September 20.
Colorado's most infamous pass road, and one of the last to open. The east side from US 550 is moderate, but beyond the summit the road becomes one-way only, descending the 'Steps' — off-camber rock ledges above a thousand-foot drop — and tight switchbacks past Bridal Veil Falls into Telluride. Short wheelbase, experienced spotters, and nerves required. Note: it stayed closed all of 2024 after slide damage, and reopenings are often delayed — always check San Miguel County first.
Highlights
- Bridal Veil Falls — Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall (365′)
- The Steps — the most photographed obstacle in the San Juans
- Ingram Falls and the historic Black Bear Mine
History & lore
- A sign at the top reads: 'You don't have to be crazy to drive this road, but it helps.'
- The shelf was blasted in the 1880s for the Black Bear Mine; the Telluride descent has been one-way for decades.
Live status, recent trail reports, the interactive map, and elevation profile load below.