Cinnamon Pass is the first pass of the most well know trail system in Colorado, The Alpine Loop. This
trail is suitable for everything from ATVs to cars in some parts.
The trail driven from Lake City starts at the end of Lake San Cristobal for ATVs. The first few
miles are easy but provide plenty of scenery.
Once you get to this spot you will know you are at the end of the line for passenger
cars. After this spot the trail becomes more difficult as you approach the pass.
After you get through the one small tough spot the trail will become easy again allowing
you more time to see the views.
Cinnamon Pass is at 12,640 and there are signs located here and at other places
along the trail explaining the tundra conditions at this altitude.
The unique feature of the ghost town of Animas Forks comes just after you start down
from the pass. At one time the city was home to 400 people and the largest mill in Colorado.
Animas Forks is very interesting and one could spent a lot of time exploring the area.
There is a public restroom here and there are many signs explaining the town's past.
Once at the town site you will have many choices of which trail to take next. We took
California Gulch but you can take other trails depending on the time of day. It is 28 miles from
Lake City to Animas Forks.