Slumgullion Pass - Image 1
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Slumgullion Pass

4.9
·22 reviews·, United States

A breathtaking mountain pass on Hwy 149, featuring the immense Slumgullion Earthflow and panoramic San Juan Mountain vistas.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early to Mid-October

Spectacular fall colors

CrowdMedium
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Slumgullion Pass - Image 1

Slumgullion Pass

Best Time

Early to Mid-October

Spectacular fall colors

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking mountain pass on Hwy 149, featuring the immense Slumgullion Earthflow and panoramic San Juan Mountain vistas.

4.9
(22 reviews)

"Outstanding in the fall! Take your time to stop at the pull outs and enjoy the views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive with Caution

Steep grades & sharp curves! Ensure brakes are good. Watch for wildlife. :car:

📸 Stop at Overlooks

Numerous pull-offs offer stunning views. Don't rush the drive! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Slumgullion Earthflow

Slumgullion Earthflow

Northeast of the summit

Witness a massive, ancient landslide frozen in time. A unique geological marvel offering dramatic, rugged scenery.

Windy Point Observation

Windy Point Observation

Summit of Slumgullion Pass

Panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains and the vast earthflow. A must-stop for photographers and nature lovers.

Wildflower Displays

Wildflower Displays

Along the roadside

During summer months, the pass bursts with vibrant wildflowers. A colorful natural spectacle that enhances the scenic drive.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Fall Colors

Visit Slumgullion Pass in early to mid-October for breathtaking fall foliage. The aspen trees turn vibrant yellow, creating a stunning spectacle against the mountain landscape. Plan for cooler temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations.

Prepare for Mountain Driving

Slumgullion Pass is a scenic mountain route with steep grades and sharp curves. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, especially brakes. Be aware of potential wildlife and pull over safely at designated overlooks to enjoy the views.

Best Times

When
Early to Mid-October
Why
Spectacular fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Wildflowers & clear views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Any exciting sights to (respectfully) see along this route I'll be taking over the summer? Thanks !

🚗 Drive with Caution

Steep grades & sharp curves! Ensure brakes are good. Watch for wildlife. :car: Reddit

📸 Stop at Overlooks

Numerous pull-offs offer stunning views. Don't rush the drive! :camerawithflash:

🍂 Fall Color Peak

Aspens turn vibrant yellow in early Oct. Best for fall foliage viewing. :fallen_leaf:

🥾 Explore Old Campgrounds

Remnants of old campgrounds with picnic tables & fire rings. :hiking_boot:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive with Caution

Steep grades & sharp curves! Ensure brakes are good. Watch for wildlife. :car: Reddit

📸 Stop at Overlooks

Numerous pull-offs offer stunning views. Don't rush the drive! :camerawithflash:

🍂 Fall Color Peak

Aspens turn vibrant yellow in early Oct. Best for fall foliage viewing. :fallen_leaf:

🥾 Explore Old Campgrounds

Remnants of old campgrounds with picnic tables & fire rings. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(22 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Slumgullion Pass for its breathtaking mountain views and the unique geological spectacle of the earthflow. The fall colors are a major draw, with many recommending a visit during October. Some note the steep grades and sharp curves require careful driving, and amenities are basic.

"Located on Hwy 149 between Hwy 160 and Hwy 50, this is a great route! Coming from the South, going thru Crede and working up towards Lake City, this route will not leave you disappointed. Our plan is to come back in the fall to see some great fall colors with the Aspen turning.

Slumgullion pass seems to be an area for off-roaders to unload and explore. The remains of old campground, concrete picnic tables and fire rings are noticeable. There is also an old pit vault toilet as well as a newer one that seemed to get pretty light use.

Great wildflowers as well as views of mountains to the north and a huge earthflow to the northeast."

Peter Boyd

"Slumgullion Pass is outstanding in the fall! Take your time to stop at the pull outs and enjoy the views"

Kristal Kraft

"It's a great experience to drive up to the top"

Kiran CG

What People Like

Stunning mountain views
Impressive earthflow
Beautiful fall colors

What People Dislike

Steep grades & curves

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Slumgullion Pass is located on Highway 149 between Highway 160 and Highway 50 in Colorado. It's a scenic drive, often traveled between Creede and Lake City. The pass itself is the highest point on this route. Reddit

Highway 149 over Slumgullion Pass is generally open year-round, but can experience temporary closures due to heavy snowfall in winter. Always check road conditions before traveling during winter months. Reddit

The closest towns are Creede to the south and Lake City to the north. Both offer amenities like lodging, dining, and gas stations. Reddit

Yes, RVs can navigate Highway 149, but be mindful of the steep grades and sharp curves. It's advisable to drive slowly and use lower gears on descents. Reddit

The Slumgullion Earthflow is visible from the highway, particularly from overlooks northeast of the summit. There are pull-offs where you can safely stop and view this geological feature. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Slumgullion Pass is a public roadway and there is no entrance fee to drive through or stop at the overlooks. It's a free scenic byway. Reddit

Slumgullion Pass is accessible 24/7 as it is a public highway. However, visibility and safety can be significantly reduced during nighttime, especially in adverse weather conditions. Reddit

No advance booking is required as it's a public road. You can visit anytime. Reddit

The primary restriction is to drive safely and responsibly, respecting the mountain environment. Be aware of weather conditions and wildlife. Reddit

While there are remnants of old campgrounds, official camping facilities may be limited. It's best to check with the local Forest Service or BLM offices for designated camping areas nearby. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You'll see the impressive Slumgullion Earthflow, stunning mountain vistas from Windy Point Observation, and vibrant wildflowers in summer. The drive itself is a major attraction. Reddit

Windy Point Observation at the summit offers the most expansive views. There are also numerous pull-offs along the highway that provide excellent photo opportunities of the earthflow and surrounding peaks. Reddit

While the pass is primarily a scenic drive, there are opportunities for short walks at overlooks. For more extensive hiking, consider nearby areas like the Weminuche Wilderness or trails around Lake City. Reddit

Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and various bird species. Bears are also present in the area, so practice bear safety if you venture off-road. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms available at some of the larger pull-offs, including at the summit. These are typically vault toilets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The Windy Point Observation deck is prime for panoramic shots. The overlooks showcasing the Slumgullion Earthflow are also highly photogenic, especially with dramatic lighting. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the colors of the mountains and earthflow. Golden hour is particularly magical. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Reddit

Capture the scale of the earthflow, the winding road, and the changing colors of the aspen trees in autumn. Look for wildflowers in bloom during the summer. Reddit

Be mindful of weather changes, as conditions can shift rapidly in the mountains. Always prioritize safety and stay within designated viewing areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Slumgullion Pass offers a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the grandeur of the Colorado mountains. The short, accessible overlooks make it easy for kids to get out and stretch their legs without extensive hiking. The Slumgullion Earthflow is a unique geological wonder that can spark curiosity and imagination in young minds. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited along the pass. Reddit

Consider visiting during the summer months when wildflowers are in bloom, adding an extra layer of visual interest for children. The drive itself, with its winding roads and mountain vistas, can be an adventure. Ensure children are safely buckled in and enjoy the scenic journey. The restrooms at the summit are a convenient stop for families. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For road trip enthusiasts, Slumgullion Pass is a must-drive segment of Highway 149. This route is celebrated for its dramatic mountain scenery, challenging curves, and the awe-inspiring Slumgullion Earthflow. It's a perfect addition to a longer Colorado road trip, connecting popular destinations like Creede and Lake City. Reddit

Plan to dedicate ample time to this section of your journey. The numerous scenic pull-offs are not to be missed, offering opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the vastness of the San Juan Mountains. The drive is particularly spectacular in the fall when the aspen trees create a vibrant tapestry of color. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology of Slumgullion Earthflow

The Slumgullion Earthflow is a remarkable geological feature, essentially a massive landslide that occurred thousands of years ago. It's one of the largest and best-preserved earthflows in the United States, stretching for miles. The flow is composed of volcanic debris that became unstable and slid down the mountainside, creating a rugged, hummocky terrain that is still visible today. This slow-moving mass of rock and soil has sculpted the landscape, diverting drainages and forming unique microhabitats. It's a testament to the powerful forces of nature that have shaped the San Juan Mountains. Reddit

Visitors can observe the earthflow from various overlooks along Highway 149. The sheer scale of the feature is best appreciated from a distance, allowing you to grasp its immense size and the dramatic impact it had on the terrain. The textures and patterns within the earthflow are fascinating, showcasing the chaotic yet ordered nature of geological processes. It’s a prime example of mass wasting and a must-see for anyone interested in geology or dramatic natural landscapes. Reddit

Driving Slumgullion Pass: A Scenic Adventure

Driving Slumgullion Pass on Highway 149 is an experience in itself. The road winds its way up to an elevation of over 11,000 feet, offering breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. The route is known for its steep grades and sharp curves, making it an exhilarating drive for those who enjoy mountain roads. It's crucial to drive with caution, especially during inclement weather or when encountering other vehicles. Reddit

As you ascend, the landscape transforms, showcasing alpine meadows, dense forests, and dramatic rock formations. The Windy Point Observation area at the summit provides an unparalleled vantage point to soak in the grandeur of the San Juan Mountains. This is an ideal spot to stop, stretch your legs, and capture stunning photographs. Remember to check weather conditions before your trip, as mountain passes can experience rapid changes in temperature and visibility. Reddit

Travelers often recommend taking your time to stop at the numerous pull-outs along the pass. These aren't just for parking; they are designed to let you appreciate the stunning scenery and unique geological features like the earthflow. Whether you're heading north towards Lake City or south towards Creede, the drive over Slumgullion Pass is a highlight of any trip through this region of Colorado. Reddit

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