If you’re searching for one of the most breathtaking views in colorful Colorado, look no further than Red Mountain Colorado. While Red Mountain Pass in Colorado gets a lot of attention due to its location on the Million Dollar Highway, the real hidden gem lies beyond—accessible only via a thrilling off-roading adventure through Corkscrew Pass. This rugged drive leads to panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and the strikingly colorful Red Mountain Colorado landscape that many travelers seek.
The Rainbow Mountains of Colorado
There are three Red Mountains: Red Mountain No. 1, Red Mountain No. 2, and Red Mountain No. 3. These are also referred to as Red Mountain Number 1, Red Mountain 1, etc. I call this area the Rainbow Mountains of Colorado due to the vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues that paint the mountains in a surreal display. It also reminds me of a local version of the famous Rainbow Mountain in Peru.
Why Visit Red Mountain Colorado Instead of Red Mountain Pass?
While Red Mountain Pass is a popular stop along the Million Dollar Highway, the pass itself is primarily a scenic drive on paved roads, offering distant views of the stunning Red Mountains of Colorado. If you’re short on time or prefer an easy, no-hassle viewpoint, sticking to the pass might be the right choice for you (You can download a self-guided driving audio tour for the Million Dollar Highway here).
However, the true beauty of this area is best experienced from the Red Mountain No. 1 viewpoint and Red Mountain No. 3, where you can immerse yourself in the colors up close.
This view isn’t accessible from the highway but requires a 4WD high-clearance vehicle to navigate the dirt roads leading up Corkscrew Pass and down to the base of Red Mountain No. 1 and 3.
Getting to Red Mountain Colorado Viewpoints via Corkscrew Pass
- Start Point: Near Mineral Creek Staging Area off U.S. Route 550 (The Million Dollar Highway)
- Route: Turn off toward Corkscrew Pass on Corkscrew Gulch Trail 20A, a high-alpine 4WD road offering spectacular mountain views. It’s about a 4-mile dirt road, but don’t let the mileage fool you—it’s slow going. The road starts through the forest but quickly emerges onto cliffside terrain, making it a thrilling drive. Make sure you head in with a full tank of gas.
- Vehicle Requirements: A 4WD, high-clearance vehicle is essential due to steep, rocky terrain. While you can get away with a regular (non-high) clearance 4wd, be prepared to get your vehicle a bit banged up on the bottom. My Bronco Sport Badlands handled the terrain well for the most part.
- Time to Destination: About 1 hour from the highway to the scenic viewpoint.
Highlights of Red Mountain Colorado
- Unbeatable Views: Unlike Red Mountain Pass, this area provides unobstructed, 360-degree panoramic vistas of the iconic colorful rainbow mountains in Colorado.
- Adventure Factor: The off-road journey adds an extra level of thrill for adventure seekers. While most of the road is on the easier side of off-roading (speaking as a beginner), there are some spicy sections where understanding off-road etiquette is essential.
- Photography Haven: The iron-rich soil creates a vibrant red-orange landscape that contrasts beautifully with alpine greenery.
- Less Crowded: While Red Mountain Pass is heavily trafficked, the route to Red Mountain No. 1 offers more solitude and an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Hiking Red Mountain Colorado
From the base of Red Mountain No 3, you can see all the way up to the summit (12,905 ft). It looks to be a short but steep hike starting from the bottom, and you can take a detour to Red Mountain No. 2 or simply enjoy views of it from the trail. The views along the way are simply breathtaking.
Alternatively, if you are not comfortable off-roading and driving up sketchy passes, fret not—you can still hike Red Mountain No. 3 and experience the same incredible views. This is the better option for hikers vs. off-road adventurers! You can drive a short distance (<1 mile from the Million Dollar Highway) to get to the Red Mountain No. 3 trailhead and hike to the top of Number 3 (less than 2 miles one way), then continue down towards Number 2 and Number 1 before hiking back up and out the same way. This would offer a longer hike and a more immersive adventure on foot rather than in a vehicle.
Is Red Mountain Pass the Same as the Million Dollar Highway?
No, but they are closely connected. Red Mountain Pass is a section of the Million Dollar Highway, specifically a stretch between Ouray and Silverton. However, the best views of Red Mountain Colorado aren’t from the highway but from Corkscrew Pass, leading up to views of all three Red Mountain.
Off-Roading Tips for Corkscrew Pass
- Check Road Conditions: The route can be impassable after heavy rain or early-season snow.
- Bring Navigation Tools: Cell service is limited/ non-existent, so use a GPS or offline maps.
- Go with a Group: If possible, travel with other off-roaders in case of emergencies. Radios are handy in groups.
- Start Early: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the San Juan Mountains.
- Pack Essentials: Bring extra water, snacks, and emergency supplies.
Red Mountain Pass Webcam: What to Expect
Before heading out, check the Red Mountain Pass webcam for current conditions. While this won’t show Corkscrew Pass which is higher in elevation, it will give you an idea of visibility and weather in the area.
The Wrap-Up: Red Mountain Colorado and Red Mountain Pass
If you’re looking for a true Colorado off-roading adventure, skip the crowded pull-offs along Red Mountain Pass Colorado and take the road less traveled to Red Mountain No. 1 and 3 via Corkscrew Pass. This off-road experience delivers some of the best mountain scenery in the state, making it well worth the journey.
Would you take on this off-roading adventure? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your experience!
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