Three Pass Loop

Gravel adventure outside of Buena Vista, Colorado

This very challenging 50 mile loop follows the Alpine Tunnel trail from the ghost town of St. Elmo before climbing over Williams, Cumberland, and Tincup pass. It’s not an easy route. I walked a lot. I saw some scary animal tracks. Bad weather seemed constantly on the horizon. And yet it made for an incredible adventure, one wholly contained on three of the highest and most beautiful gravel passes in Colorado.

It is important to note that this ride is in very remote parts of the San Isabel and Gunnison national forests. I don’t think I had cell service at any point. And the heavy amount of mining ruins along the way really emphasize how “out there” you are.  Obviously, and because of these things, some planning and a reliable repair kit are necessities.

The ride is pretty difficult, no lie. But the reward is constantly surrounding you- in the immensely beautiful landscapes, the bones  of Colorado’s mining history, in the challenge itself. And the snow cone stand in Tincup (bring cash).