Rollins Pass

Rollins Pass is a former railway crossing in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, linking Boulder County and Grand County at an elevation of 11,500 feet (3,500 meters). The route follows the old railroad bed through open alpine meadows and rocky terrain, passing abandoned station buildings and weathered timber structures.

The Denver, Boulder and Western Railway opened this route in 1903 as part of a connection between Denver and western areas of the state. Rail operations ceased in 1928 when a new tunnel through James Peak shifted train traffic to a lower and safer alignment.

The name honors John Quincy Adams Rollins, a Colorado pioneer and politician who promoted development in this mountain region during the 19th century. Hikers today still find remnants of the old track bed and wooden ties along the route, reminders of the railway era.

The route typically opens in early June as snow melts and remains accessible until late October or early November, depending on the first winter storms. Hikers should start early in the morning, as afternoon thunderstorms are common at this elevation and the exposed location offers little shelter.

Archaeological discoveries along the pass reveal an ancient game drive system used by Paleoindian hunters more than 10,000 years ago during seasonal migrations. These stone structures helped funnel wildlife into specific areas where they could be hunted more easily.