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Nestled within Central Colorado, the Webster and Red Cone Passes are two hidden gems that offer breathtaking views and exhilarating off-roading trails for adventurous tourists. Whether you are a seasoned photographer looking for an ideal spot to capture nature’s beauty or a 4-wheeling enthusiast looking for a challenge, these destinations will not disappoint.
Located within a day’s trip from Denver, Webster and Red Cone Passes can be accessed via Highway 285. As you leave the bustling city behind, the road gradually winds up the foothills of the Rockies, and you’ll start to feel the anticipation building as the scenery becomes more and more spectacular.
The first thing that will strike you as you reach the summit of the pass is the panoramic view that extends for miles. The alpine tundra and utterly “bald” mountain tops offer a stunning backdrop that will make your heart skip a beat. The open landscape, dotted with wildflowers, is a photographer’s paradise. Late summer (mid-July/August) is the perfect time to visit when the wildflowers are in full bloom. The high altitude basin of these mountain peaks explodes with colors and offers a perfect place to have a picnic lunch and work on your closeup/macro photography.
Aside from the stunning vistas, Webster and Red Cone Passes offer some of Central Colorado’s best 4-wheeling trails. If you are an off-road enthusiast, you will be thrilled to know that several other Jeep trails can be accessed from this same area, including Sante Fe Peak, Deer Creek, Glacier Mountain, Saint Johns, and Radical Hill. These trails will test your driving skills, and the rugged terrain will provide a challenge that you will relish.
While the “Summit County side” of the pass is relatively lush with vegetation and streams, the “Park County” side offers a unique and breathtaking sight that you will not soon forget. Crumbled mountainsides tower above the road, boasting a bright red earth that looks like you might be visiting Mars. Unlike Mars, this is not a lifeless area. It is not uncommon to come across some of Colorado’s photogenic wildlife, such as Mountain Goats, marmots, chipmunks, eagles, and a variety of songbirds that frequent this area.
Webster and Red Cone Passes get very high in elevation, and as such, the trails stay packed with snow late into the summer season. Usually, this destination is accessible from mid/late June until late September. Keep in mind that people afraid of rough roads and large side drop-offs might not enjoy this destination. However, for those who dare, the adventure and the views are well worth it.
Be sure to check out this Red Cone Video to see just how exciting this trip is.
