Alpine Loop
Visitor Services

Auto repair may also be found in the three communites surrounding this backcountry byway. There are picnic sites along the byway.

Service Description Service Description
Camping

Camping

There are several developed campgrounds on public lands and National Forests. These include:

Amphitheater; located just south... [more]

 Food

Food

There are places to buy food along this byway.
Gasoline

Gasoline

Gasoline is available.

 Information

Information

There is an authoritative information center along this byway.
Lodging

Lodging

There is overnight lodging along this byway.

 Phone

Phone

Public phones are available along this byway.
Restrooms

Restrooms

There are 10 restrooms along the Alpine Loop.

 Retail

Retail

There are places to shop along this byway.

NOTE: The America's Byways® website is federally funded and cannot promote commercial businesses. This data may not be complete or up to date. The National Scenic Byways Program is not responsible for the quality of your travel experience. See the right column on the Byway Overview page for local contact information.

Special Considerations

  • The Alpine Loop is a Type III back country byway, which means it is not surfaced and requires 4X4 or all-terrain vehicles (ATV's) for safe travel.

    • Please keep in mind that the major visitor services will be found in Lake City, Silverton, and Ouray.
    • Bring full tank of gas.
    • Always make sure to pack extra food and water. The cool temperatures may cause you to not drink enough; so, even if you aren't thirsty, sip water often.
    • The roads can be muddy.
    • The two 12,800-foot passes require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle (the lower 2/3rds can be accessed by most vehicles).
    • All vehicles, including jeeps, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles, are required to stay on identified roads. Mountain bikes are allowed on all roads and trails except those in wilderness or wilderness study areas.
    • Be sure to check with the Colorado Division of Wildlife for information on licenses and any special fishing restrictions that might apply to favorite fishing spots.
    • Most of the old mines and buildings in mining towns are unsafe to explore because of rotting timbers, open mine shafts, collapsing buildings, and rotten floors. It is best to explore outside of the buildings. Many of these buildings are on private lands; obey all signs that may be posted and do not trespass.
    • Most of the roads in the Alpine Triangle start at about 8,000 feet and go as high as 13,000. Hiking may take you above 14,000 feet. Hiking at high altitudes can cause headaches, nausea, and even more serious symptoms of altitude sickness. If you notice these symptoms, stop and rest awhile. If symptoms do not improve, head downhill to acclimate.
    • Use caution if you must drink stream water. Contamination from old mining operations and bacterial contamination exists. If you must use the water, boil it for 10 minutes.
    • Always be prepared for changing weather conditions.

    Restrictions

    This byway cannot be traveled on during the winter because the road is closed.

    Seasons

    Fall

    Fall gives visitors a chance to see the changing fall colors.

    Spring

    A variety of wildflowers are prominent in the springtime.

    Road Conditions

    To find up to date information about the road conditions along Alpine Loop, please visit the FHWA listing of web sites for more information.
    Colorado