Hagerman Pass - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting
About Hagerman Pass
Hagerman Pass is located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The pass is named for geologist Albert H. Hagerman, who surveyed the area in the late 19th century. Hagerman pass is situated at an elevation of 11,933 feet and it provides a crossing point for the Continental Divide. The pass is accessible by a 4x4 road and it offerst breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Although Hagerman pass is open all year round, it is recommended that visitors use caution when driving in winter conditions.Hotels near Hagerman Pass
Things to Do at Hagerman Pass
Hagerman Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rockies that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is also a great place for hiking, camping, and fishing. The pass is located in Pitkin County, Colorado, and is accessible via a scenic drive from Aspen. There are numerous trails in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Camping is allowed in designated areas, and there are also several lakes and streams in the area where anglers can cast their lines. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous escape, Hagerman Pass is sure to offer something for everyone.
Top Activities Near Hagerman Pass
History of Hagerman Pass
Hagerman Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. It is located in Pitkin County, within the White River National Forest. The pass is named for Jerome B. Hagerman, a businessman and investor who helped finance the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad's push through the Rockies in the late 1800s. Hagerman Pass summit sits at an elevation of 11,913 feet (3,634 meters) and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The pass is popular with hikers and campers, and there are several trails that lead into the backcountry from here. In winter, the pass is popular with skiers and snowmobilers. With its close proximity to Aspen and other ski resorts, Hagerman Pass is a favorite playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Hagerman Pass
The best time to visit is typically in September, when the weather is warm and dry and the leaves are beginning to change color.
Tips for Visiting Hagerman Pass
- Hagerman Pass is located about 12 miles south of Aspen on Highway 82. The best time to visit is from June to October.
- The pass is open to vehicles, but bicycling and hiking are also popular ways to enjoy the scenery.
- There are several pull-offs along the route where you can stop to take photos or simply take in the view.
- Remember that this is a high-altitude environment - drink plenty of water and take it easy if you're not used to the altitude.
- Please respect private property and do not trespass onto any land that is not part of the pass road system.
- Respect the rules of the road. Remember that Hagerman Pass is a remote location, so there are no gas station or convenience stores nearby. Be sure to obey all posted speed limits and yield to oncoming traffic when necessary.
- Don't attempt to hike alone. Hagerman Pass is home to some challenging hiking trails, so it's always best to hike with a partner or group. This will help you stay safe and enjoy the experience more fully.
Interesting Facts and Trivias About Hagerman Pass
- Hagerman Pass is a high mountain pass that separates the San Gabriel and Sawatch ranges in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado and it is one of the busiest mountain passes in Colorado, with an average of 250 vehicles per day during the summer months.
- Hagerman Pass is the site of one of the largest mining booms in Colorado history, with over 3,000 mines operating in the area at the height of the mining boom.
- Today, only a handful of these mines are still operating, but their legacy can be seen in the many abandoned mines and mill sites dotting the landscape around Hagerman Pass.
- The pass is also home to several ghost towns, including Gothic, which was once a thriving mining town with a population of over 1,000 people.
- Today, Gothic is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, as it is surrounded by some of the most pristine wilderness in Colorado.
- Hagerman Pass is also popular among recreational cyclists, as it offers challenging climbs and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Hagerman Pass
The maximum time required to explore Hagerman Pass, Pitkin county, colorado is approximately 3-4 hours.
How to Reach Hagerman Pass
To reach the pass, take Highway 82 east from Aspen for about 9 miles. Then, turn left onto Hagerman Road and follow it for 4 miles until you reach the pass. Please be aware that Hagerman Road is closed in winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Entrance Fee of Hagerman Pass
There is no entrance fee to explore Hagerman Pass, Pitkin county, colorado. However, there is a small parking fee for those who wish to park their vehicles in the lot at the trailhead.
Opening Hours of Hagerman Pass
The pass is open from June 1st through September 30th. During this time, the pass is open to vehicles from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.