Google Earth satellite image
of route
Rating: 3/10 This route is most commonly referred to as Corkscrew Gulch (the gulch is on the west side) and the pass at the top shares the same name, though it (the pass) is not identified on maps. This is a short route that connects Gladstone (~8 miles north of Silverton) to the east, with Highway 550 to the west, and is one of most scenic drives in the San Juans as Red Mountains #1, 2 and 3 are the most colorful in the state, and by a fair margin. The iron oxide (rust) in the rock makes an extremely saturated red, not to mention colorful pictures which are impossible to pass up. There are outhouses on both sides of the 12,217-foot pass, and the road is tame for the duration. There are a few switchbacks along the route, but all are plenty wide and easily navigable. Not only are the views of the Red Mountains grand, but the views of the surrounding mountain panorama provides even more eye candy to enjoy. The images below are from a few different trips, but are in sequential order driving east to west. |
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