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Kenosha Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Kenosha Pass

Kenosha Pass is a mountain pass that traverses the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. The pass is located in Park County, west of Denver and northeast of the town of Fairplay. Kenosha Pass Summit is 11,539 feet (3,513 m) above sea level, making it one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado. The pass is named for the Kenosha Mountains, a subrange of the Rockies that it crosses. Kenosha Pass is a popular recreation spot for hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing.
Address : Kenosha Pass, Colorado 80456, USA

Things to Do at Kenosha Pass

Kenosha Pass is a beautiful destination in Park County, Colorado. There are many things to do here, including hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The scenery is simply stunning, and there are plenty of trails to explore. Hiking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors, and there are trails for all skill levels. Camping is also available, and there are several campsites to choose from. Picnicking is a popular activity here, and there are several picnic areas with tables and grills. Fishing is allowed in certain areas, and anglers can catch trout, bass, and other types of fish. Wildlife watching is also a great way to spend time at Kenosha Pass, and there are many different types of animals to see, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and eagles.


Top Activities Near Kenosha Pass

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History of Kenosha Pass

Kenosha Pass is located in Park County, Colorado and is a popular spot for hiking and camping. The pass takes its name from the nearby Kenosha Mountains, which were named after the Indian tribe that once inhabited the area. The Kenosha Pass area has a long history of human habitation, dating back to the days of the early Native Americans. The Ute Indians were some of the first people to call the Kenosha Pass area home and they used it as a summer hunting ground. Later, trappers and explorers made their way through the pass and in 1858, gold was discovered in nearby Denver. This led to a wave of prospectors passing through Kenosha Pass on their way to strike it rich. Today, Kenosha Pass is a popular recreation spot and its history is commemorated by a plaque at the summit.


Best Time to Visit Kenosha Pass

The best time to visit Kenosha Pass is from mid-June to mid-September. During this time, the weather is usually mild and sunny, and the forests are full of wildflowers. 

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Tips for Visiting Kenosha Pass

  1. Plan ahead and pack accordingly. Kenosha Pass is a high-altitude area, so make sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen. If you're hiking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a map.
  2. Take your time. With so much to see, there's no need to rush. Slow down and take in the scenery, whether you're hiking, biking, or just taking a leisurely stroll.
  3. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Kenosha Pass is home to many different animals, including deer, elk, coyotes, and eagles. If you're lucky, you might even see some Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep!
  4. Stop at the visitor center. The visitor center is a great place to learn more about the area and pick up maps and information about trails and other attractions.
  5. explore the wildflower trail. The wildflower trail is a 1-mile loop that takes you through some of the most beautiful flowers in Colorado.
  6.  watch for thunderstorms. Park County is known for its thunderstorms, so be sure to keep an eye on the sky if you're planning on spending time outdoors.
  7. There are no facilities at Kenosha Pass, so come prepared with your own food, water, and firewood.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Kenosha Pass

  1. At an elevation of 10,854 feet, Kenosha Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado. 
  2. The pass is now popular with hikers and has several trails that lead to scenic lookouts. 
  3. In the summer, wildflowers bloom in profusion along the trails at Kenosha Pass. 
  4. Winter brings heavy snowfall to Kenosha Pass, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. 
  5. There are several historical sites located near Kenosha Pass, including the remains of an old mining town. 
  6. In 1864, during the Civil War, the pass was used by Union troops as they marched from Denver to attack the Confederate stronghold of Fort Morrow.
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Kenosha Pass

While there is no official trail, the most popular route is roughly 3 miles long and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. However, depending on the individual's fitness level and how much time they want to spend taking in the scenery, it could take longer. 


How to Reach Kenosha Pass

To reach Kenosha Pass, take Highway 285 south from Denver. The road will wind through the mountains for approximately 50 miles before reaching the pass. At an elevation of 10,856 feet, Kenosha Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado. 


Entrance Fee of Kenosha Pass

 The entrance fee for the park is $7 per car or $4 per person if hiking or biking. The fees collected go towards the maintenance and upkeep of the park.


Opening Hours of Kenosha Pass

The pass is open all year round. However, the opening hours of the pass vary depending on the season. In winter, the pass is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, while in summer it is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.


Attractions Near Kenosha Pass

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North Fork South Platte RiverThe North Fork of the South Platte River is one of the main tributaries of the South Platte River in Colorado. It originates in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, near the town of Grant, and flows for approximately 80 miles before joining the South Platte River near the town of Deckers. The North Fork is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and hiking, and is home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout.
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Lost Creek WildernessThis is a beautiful and popular spot in Park County. It's known for its scenic hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and crystal-clear lakes. The area is also popular with backpackers and campers, who come to enjoy the solitude and tranquility of the wilderness. While the Lost Creek Wilderness is a great place to explore, it's important to be prepared before heading into the backcountry. Be sure to bring plenty of food and water, a map and compass, and appropriate clothing for the weather.
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Georgia PassGeorgia Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. The pass is located in Summit County, on the border between the towns of Breckenridge and Alma. Georgia Pass rises to an elevation of 12,095 feet, making it one of the highest passes in the state. The pass provides access to the beautiful summit county area, which is known for its ski resorts, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation. Georgia Pass is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
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Webster PassWebster Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The pass is located in the Front Range, south of the town of Breckenridge and north of the town of Alma. It is traversed by State Highway 9. The pass sits at an elevation of 12,095 feet and provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The area around Webster Pass is popular for hiking, camping, and fishing. The pass is also popular with skiers and snowboarders in the winter.
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Como RoundhouseThe Como Roundhouse is a historic site located in Park County. The roundhouse was built in 1881 by the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad, and served as a repair shop for locomotives. The site includes the remains of the roundhouse, engine house, turntable, and water tank. The Como Roundhouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Today, the site is open to the public for tours and events. This is a unique and important part of Colorado's history.
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Boreas PassBoreas Pass is a high mountain pass that traverses the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The pass is located in the Front Range, west of Denver, and provides the shortest route between the cities of Denver and Grand Junction. Boreas Pass is Named for the north wind of Greek mythology, the pass was used by prospectors during the Colorado Gold Rush of 1859-60. Today, Boreas Pass is a popular recreation area, offering hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Discover More Attractions in Park County, Home of Kenosha Pass


Location of Kenosha Pass


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