HIGHLIGHTS
Kebler Pass is best-known for its fall colors. Many make the drive from Paonia to
Crested Butte simply to view the
spectacle of aspen.
There are also side trips possible, including one to
Lake Irwin. And, from Crested Butte, several hikes enter the
Maroon Bells Wilderness from the south.
Similar to Kebler Pass, nearby
Ohio Pass is another popular route into the West Elk Wilderness. In fall, the
scenery here can be equally beautiful.
And from Gunnison,
Curecanti is just a short drive west.
DIRECTIONS
From Gunnison take Colorado 32 north 32 miles to Crested Butte. From Crested Butte take Colorado 12 west, which is also known as Kebler Pass. Kebler Pass Road is a well-maintained dirt road for its entirety, and is part of the larger West Elk Scenic Loop.
To get to Ohio Pass, from Gunnison take Colorado 32 north 5 miles to Ohio Pass Road. Turn left, west. Once you go over the pass, you quickly intersect with Kebler Pass, where you can turn right and return through Crested Butte, or turn left and enjoy the fall colors along Kebler Pass Road as well.
ELEVATIONS
9,980 feet (Kebler Pass), 10,093 feet (Ohio Pass).
RESOURCES
Gunnison National Forest
PHOTOGRAPHS