Stony Pass, Mountain pass road in San Juan County, Colorado
Stony Pass is a mountain road in San Juan County that connects unpaved routes over roughly 17 kilometers at high elevation. The route crosses multiple water crossings and leads to areas feeding the headwaters of the Rio Grande.
The road developed in the 1870s as a supply route for mining operations in the region. It became the main corridor through which miners, silver, and gold were transported during the late 1800s.
The pass plays a role in Colorado's mining heritage, as the road follows paths used by early prospectors and freight carriers. Visitors can still see traces of these original routes and understand how important this passage was for the region's development.
The road closes from late October through June due to snow, and requires high clearance vehicles with four-wheel drive to navigate. Visitors should prepare for difficult driving conditions and only travel when weather permits.
The Continental Divide runs through this pass, marking the watershed divide between two oceans. This geographical feature makes the route a notable point for understanding the hydrology and geology of the area.
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