Black Bear Pass Trail

A dining room table sized boulder is blocking about 2/3 of the road above one of the switchbacks. If on foot, this is a beautiful hike that gives you a surreal view of the valley below. If you brought your Jeep all the way out here to ride this trail, you can still access this area from the Telluride side all the way up to the top of the falls. Check with the county or forest service for updates on the closure. Very scenic trail for off-roading purposes. You occasionally run into a hiker or mountain-biker, but for the most part, it’s all 4x4’s. The views are spectacular throughout the trail but the best views are when you come down the waterfall. Incredible views from high above Red Mountain Pass and Telluride. Close-up views of historic mines and dramatic waterfalls. Feel the mist from spectacular Bridal Veil Falls. Road is closed November through May 1. Switchbacks are one-way downhill; no return to start once you begin descent. Unlicensed vehicles should turn around before going down one-way switchbacks or have pick-up vehicle waiting at the bottom. Most of the trail is easy to moderate. The difficult rating is based on a mile-long stretch of dangerous switchbacks above Bridal Veil Falls. Your vehicle should have low-range 4WD, good tires, good brakes, excellent articulation, and a fully functional emergency brake.