Getting Oriented
The pass crosses Lake and Park counties in central Colorado, between two of the highest mining towns in North America: Leadville (the highest incorporated city in the US at 10,152 feet) and Fairplay (a former mining hub on the South Park grasslands). The Mosquito Range is a sub-range of the southern Rockies dividing the Arkansas River drainage from the South Platte. The pass route runs through Pike-San Isabel National Forest land.
Trail Overview
The Auto Tour starts north of Fairplay on the eastern side, climbing through old mining ruins and tundra-edge meadows. The road steepens significantly above 12,000 feet, with rocky switchbacks to the summit at 13,185 feet. From the summit, the western descent drops past the Diamond Mine and the historic Mosquito town site to Leadville. Both sides have technical sections; the eastern climb is the more demanding direction.
Driving the pass takes 3 to 4 hours one-way. Most travelers run it as a one-way through-trip, parking a shuttle vehicle in Leadville or Fairplay. Lightning hits the alpine summit regularly in summer afternoons; plan to be off the high section by early afternoon.
Points of Interest
- The summit at 13,185 feet. Fourth-highest drivable road in Colorado.
- Mosquito town site. A 1880s mining camp foundation on the western descent.
- Diamond Mine. A historic mining operation visible from the road.
- Pacific Railroad ruin. Old narrow-gauge railroad evidence.
- Alpine tundra. The summit area is above timberline with high-altitude wildflowers in late July.
- Historic toll-road plaque. Marking the 1879 toll-road era.
- Annual Burro Race. The 'Practical Pack Burro Race' from Fairplay over Mosquito Pass to Leadville is held each summer.
Where to Camp
Dispersed camping is allowed in the Pike-San Isabel National Forest with the standard 14-day stay limit. Several developed Forest Service campgrounds line the South Platte and Arkansas River drainages. Leadville and Fairplay both have commercial RV parks and lodging. No camping at the summit itself due to the alpine tundra protection.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Travel July through September. The pass is impassable the rest of the year.
- Acclimate to altitude before driving. The summit is at 13,185 feet; visitors from sea level should expect altitude effects.
- Carry recovery gear, a full-size spare, and a plug kit.
- Cell coverage is absent.
- Lightning hits the summit regularly in summer afternoons. Plan to be off the high section by 1-2 PM.
- Yield to uphill traffic on single-lane sections.
- Stay on the road. Alpine tundra damages take centuries to recover.
- Carry layers; summit temperatures can be 30-40°F cooler than the trailhead.
- Contact the Pike-San Isabel National Forest's South Park Ranger District at 719-836-2031 for current conditions.
