Kennebec Pass: The Fall Drive Nobody Talks About
Everyone knows about the Million Dollar Highway for fall colors. But if you want aspens without the traffic, Kennebec Pass is the local's secret. It's a Forest Service road west of Durango that climbs through some of the most concentrated aspen groves in the San Juans.
The Drive
From Durango, head west on US-160, then turn onto La Plata Canyon Road (County Road 124). The paved road turns to gravel and winds up through La Plata Canyon toward Kennebec Pass at about 11,600 feet. The entire drive from Durango is roughly 30 miles and takes about an hour, depending on road conditions.
Why It's Special
La Plata Canyon is lined with aspens on both sides. In late September through early October, the entire canyon goes gold. The concentration of aspens here rivals anything on the Million Dollar Highway, but you'll share the road with a fraction of the traffic.
Higher up, the terrain opens into alpine meadows with panoramic views of the La Plata Mountains. If you time it right with the fall colors below and fresh snow on the peaks above, it's one of the best views in Colorado.
Tips
The road is passable for most vehicles in dry conditions up to a certain point, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the upper sections near the pass. Check conditions before heading up — the road can be rough after rain.
Bring layers. The temperature drops significantly as you climb from 7,000 feet to 11,000+ feet. Pack lunch and eat it at one of the pullouts with a view.
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