Lizard Head Pass Colorado
High-altitude mountain pass offering free dispersed camping and breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Lizard Head Pass Colorado
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
High-altitude mountain pass offering free dispersed camping and breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains.
"Beautiful place. Jam packed during the holidays, and some road noise, but well worth it."
🚗 Drive Carefully on the Pass
The drive can be scary for some, especially with winding roads. Slow down, use hazards if assisting others, and be aware of changing conditions.
🏕️ Arrive Early for Camping
Prime dispersed camping spots fill up fast, especially for larger vehicles. Weekdays are your best bet for securing a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Lizard Head Pass Summit
Soar over 12,000 feet for breathtaking views of the Wilson Range and surrounding peaks. A must-see for any Colorado adventurer.
Dispersed Camping Magic
Various pull-offs along CO 145
Experience free, magical camping with stunning scenery. Perfect for RVs and vans, but arrive early for the best spots.
+1
Scenic Fall Foliage Drive
CO 145 over Lizard Head Pass
Witness the vibrant yellow of aspens blanketing the mountainsides. A truly spectacular drive, especially between Mesa Verde and Telluride.
Winter Wonderland Snowboarding
Lizard Head Pass backcountry
Experience the thrill of powder days and shredding fresh snow in this stunning winter landscape.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Pass and Camping
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully on the Pass
The drive can be scary for some, especially with winding roads. Slow down, use hazards if assisting others, and be aware of changing conditions.
🏕️ Arrive Early for Camping
Prime dispersed camping spots fill up fast, especially for larger vehicles. Weekdays are your best bet for securing a spot.
⬆️ Acclimatize to Altitude
At over 10,000 feet, take it easy on your first day to adjust to the high elevation. Stay hydrated!
🔥 Check Fire Restrictions
Wildfires can impact access. Always check local fire restrictions and conditions before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on the Pass
The drive can be scary for some, especially with winding roads. Slow down, use hazards if assisting others, and be aware of changing conditions.
🏕️ Arrive Early for Camping
Prime dispersed camping spots fill up fast, especially for larger vehicles. Weekdays are your best bet for securing a spot.
⬆️ Acclimatize to Altitude
At over 10,000 feet, take it easy on your first day to adjust to the high elevation. Stay hydrated!
🔥 Check Fire Restrictions
Wildfires can impact access. Always check local fire restrictions and conditions before your visit.
🥾 Explore Higher Trails
Beyond the pass, numerous trails lead into higher country for more challenging hikes and incredible views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning mountain views and the opportunity for free dispersed camping at Lizard Head Pass. While some find the pass a bit intimidating to drive, the beauty of the San Juan Mountains and the vibrant fall colors make it a worthwhile experience. The main drawback is the crowded nature of the camping spots, especially for larger vehicles, leading some to feel it resembles a parking lot rather than a traditional campground.
"Really beautiful view but felt more like a parking lot than a campground.
I get why big rigs and RVs may chose to stay here but there’s plenty of better spots with a 4x4 vehicle."
Jess Fiala
"Such a beautiful drive especially in the fall when the Aspens are yellow! We drove this pass between Mesa Verde and Telluride and enjoyed it very much"
Marcinda
"Beautiful place. Jam packed during the holidays, and some road noise, but well worth it."
Daniel Greenberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lizard Head Pass is located about 20 minutes south of Telluride, Colorado, on CO 145. The drive itself is scenic and offers stunning views as you ascend.
Yes, CO 145 is a paved highway that goes over Lizard Head Pass, making it accessible for most vehicles, including RVs and large rigs.
While the pass is generally open year-round, winter conditions can be severe. Snowboarding and skiing are popular, but check road conditions before traveling.
The pass features winding roads and can be steep in sections. Drivers should be cautious, especially in adverse weather. Many find it beautiful but also a bit scary.
As you approach the summit, you'll see the prominent feature that marks Lizard Head Pass itself, offering a distinct landmark for the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lizard Head Pass is a public mountain pass and does not require an entrance ticket. Access to the pass and surrounding wilderness areas is generally free.
Camping at Lizard Head Pass is typically dispersed and free. However, be aware of any posted regulations or fire restrictions in the area.
Lizard Head Pass is accessible 24/7, as it is a public roadway. However, weather conditions can affect accessibility, especially in winter.
The Lizard Head Wilderness does not have an admission fee. However, visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Lizard Head Pass offers dispersed camping, meaning there are no designated campsites to book. It's first-come, first-served.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include scenic drives, dispersed camping, hiking in the Lizard Head Wilderness, photography, and in winter, snowboarding and skiing.
Yes, there are trails leading into higher country from Lizard Head Pass, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the San Juan Mountains.
While not guaranteed, you might spot various mountain wildlife. Keep a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
Yes, RVs and large vehicles can access the pass, and it's a popular spot for dispersed camping. However, prime spots can be limited.
Lizard Head Pass is situated at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, so be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers panoramic views of the Wilson Range. Look for winding rivers in valleys during sunset for drone shots, and capture the vibrant fall colors.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for mountain landscapes. Golden hour can create magical scenes, especially with the winding river.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas. Consider a telephoto lens for wildlife and a drone for unique aerial shots.
Focus on the dramatic peaks of the Wilson Range, the winding river valley, the vibrant fall foliage, and the winter snowscapes.
Drone photography is possible, offering unique perspectives of the river and mountains. Always be aware of and comply with any airspace regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While extensive hiking might be challenging for very young children due to the altitude, shorter walks from the pass can still be enjoyable. The open spaces are great for kids to explore (under supervision, of course). Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be mindful of the high altitude, taking frequent breaks to ensure everyone is comfortable and hydrated.
🚐 RV and Van Life Travelers
+1However, due to its popularity, securing a good spot can be competitive, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Arriving early in the week or during shoulder seasons is highly recommended. While the main areas are accessible, having a 4x4 can open up more secluded options further off the beaten path. Remember to practice Leave No Trace and be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Autumn brings an explosion of vibrant fall colors, making it a prime time for landscape photography. In winter, the snow-covered peaks and serene landscapes provide a different, yet equally stunning, photographic subject. Be prepared for changing weather and high altitudes to capture the best of this natural beauty.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Dispersed Camping at Lizard Head Pass
+1While the accessibility for RVs and large rigs is a major draw, it also means that prime spots can be competitive, especially during peak season and holidays. Arriving early, particularly on weekdays, is crucial for securing a good location. Travelers with 4x4 vehicles may find it easier to access more secluded spots further off the main road. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of this area for future visitors.
It's important to note that the Stoner Mesa Fire has impacted the area in the past, leading to cancellations of events. Always check current fire restrictions and local conditions before planning your camping trip to ensure safety and access.
Driving and Scenery on CO 145
During the fall, the pass transforms into a spectacle of vibrant aspen colors, with entire hillsides turning golden yellow. This makes it a prime destination for photographers and anyone seeking stunning autumn landscapes. Even outside of fall, the panoramic views of the Wilson Range and surrounding peaks are consistently awe-inspiring, with opportunities to stop at various pull-offs to soak in the vistas.
+1Travelers should be prepared for the high altitude, which exceeds 10,000 feet. It's advisable to take it easy upon arrival and stay hydrated. While the road is paved, drivers should exercise caution due to the curves and potential for changing weather conditions, especially outside of the summer months.
Winter Activities at Lizard Head Pass
+2For those seeking a different kind of winter thrill, skate skiing has also been noted as an activity enjoyed on the pass. The expansive snowy terrain offers a serene yet adventurous setting for various winter sports. It's a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Colorado mountains in a completely different season.
It's crucial to be well-prepared for winter conditions. Check avalanche reports and weather forecasts before heading out for any backcountry activities. Proper gear, including warm clothing and safety equipment, is essential for a safe and enjoyable winter visit to Lizard Head Pass.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit