Is Corkscrew Pass open?
US 550 (Ironton) ↔ Gladstone · 12,217′ · Challenging 4WD. Typically open July 10 to October 10.
Twists up from the Ironton valley through tight, steep switchbacks — the 'corkscrew' — to a saddle between Red Mountains No. 1 and 2. One of the most photogenic roads in the district, with rust-red peaks against green tundra.
Highlights
- Iconic head-on views of the Red Mountains
- Historic Ironton townsite near the western foot
- Shortest route from Ouray into the Gladstone mining district
History & lore
- The Red Mountains' rust-red color comes from iron in the same mineralization that made this one of Colorado's richest silver districts.
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