Engineer Pass starts only a few miles from the town of Ouray. There
is a small parking area at Hwy 550
The beginning of this trail is much more difficult than Engineer
Pass, though it would not be too difficult for most people. There
are a few steep drop-offs as you drive up the canyon.
Once at higher elevations the trail becomes easier, with a much
more open type of scenery
than at lower elevations.
There are a few short side trails at the higher elevations that
lead to areas of great photo opportunities so be sure to bring your
camera.
Because of the distances covered by the Alpine Loop ATV riders should
consider spending more than one day in the area to ride all of the trails.
We road 100+ miles in one day on Dirt Bikes. It would have been better to split the trip into two
days so you would have more time to enjoy the area. I don't think an ATV
can cover this much ground in 1 day and still enjoy the scenery.
This house with a canyon as its front yard has a welcome mat that explains
how the house is here to honor a naturalist. What better
way to honor him than to build a house and permanently disturb the environment.
Whitmir Falls is only a short hike from the trail. This area can be reached in a car.
The canyon below this area is a sharp contrast from the higher elevation and is very beautiful.
To see the next trail on the Alpine Loop click Engineer Pass
Directions: From Ouray drive about 3 miles south on Hwy550 and the parking area will be
well marked.