Cerro Summit - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. In addition, Cerro Summit is home to a number of different wildlife species, making it a great place for birdwatching or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. If you're looking for a little bit of adventure, you can also try your hand at rock climbing or whitewater rafting.

Cerro Summit pass is located in Montrose county, Colorado. The pass is situated at an elevation of 10,409 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest mountain passes in the state. The pass was originally used by Native Americans as a trade route between the regions of present-day Colorado and Utah. In 1873, the Denver and Rio Grande Railway company built a rail line through the pass, which became an important transport route for goods and passengers. During the early 20th century, the Cerro Summit pass was also used by automobile traffic. Since 2015, Cerro Summit has been home to the Cerro Summit Recreation Area, an open space managed by the City of Montrose which features a network of hiking trails. 

The best time to visit Cerro Summit pass is in the summer. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for hiking and camping. However, the pass can be busy with tourists during this time of year. 

1. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. Cerro Summit pass is located at a high elevation, so it tends to be cooler than surrounding areas.
2. Be aware of your surroundings and stay on marked trails. The terrain can be challenging, and it's easy to get lost if you're not paying attention.
3. Remember that cell phone service can be spotty at Cerro Summit pass, so it's a good idea to have a backup plan in case of an emergency.
4. Be sure to stop at Blue Mesa Reservoir for a break and to take in the views.
5. When you're ready to head back down, be sure to take your time and drive safely. The road can be slippery and dangerous in places.
6. Respect private property rights . The majority of Cerro Summit is privately owned, so please respect posted signs and stay on designated trails .  Do not trespassing onto someone's property without permission .         

1. Cerro Summit pass is the highest point on the Continental Divide in Colorado, at an elevation of 11,567 feet.
2. The pass is located in the San Juan Mountains, and is part of the Rocky Mountain chain.
3. There are several trailheads leading into the San Juans from Cerro Summit pass, including the popular Blue Lakes trail.
4. Cerro Summit pass is also known for its spectacular wildflower displays in late summer.
5. The San Juans are one of the most geologically diverse mountain ranges in North America, and Cerro Summit pass provides access to some of the finest examples of this diversity.

The maximum time required to explore the pass is three hours. During this time, hikers can enjoy the scenery and get a workout in at the same time.

To reach Cerro Summit pass in Montrose county, Colorado, take Highway 550 north from Montrose for about 25 miles. The road will wind its way up into the mountains, and the views will become more and more breathtaking as you ascend. Eventually, you'll reach a sign that marks the summit of the pass. From there, it's just a short distance to the top of Cerro Summit. 

In order to access the pass, visitors must pay an entrance fee of $5 per person. The fee helps to cover the cost of maintaining the trail and providing restrooms and trash cans at the trailhead. 

The pass is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. However, during the winter months, the pass may be closed due to weather conditions. For the safety of visitors, it is always best to check the current conditions before heading out.