Jones Pass crosses the Continental Divide in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. It is located in Clear Creek County, near Idaho Springs, Colorado on the elevation of 12,454 ft (3,796 m). Jones Pass trail is 7.1 miles (11.4 km) long and features 2,017 ft (615 m) elevation gain. Gates for the trail that is rated as moderate, are open from June 15 to November 15. However, as it is over 12000 ft (3,700 m) in elevation, your window is only from July 15 to Aug 15 unless you want to ski or snowshoe half the time.
Summer is an excellent time to see wildflowers along the trail and stay in the mountains overnight. Right after the Jones Pass Trailhead, you will begin to see camping sites on the sides of the road. Jones Pass camping sites get less crowded as you move up. Mind that the nights in these mountains can be really windy.
The dirt road over the pass is narrow and steep, but if you have a 4WD car, you can drive up to the top. Snow stays on the trail well into the summer. But the road is kept well maintained, and quite safe.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Jones Pass in Colorado?
Jones Pass in Colorado is best visited between late June and early November. Since the pass's elevation is over 12000 ft, visitors need to plan their visit between July 15 and August 15, unless they want to ski or snowshoe half of the time. Even in summer, snow on the trail is possible, so visitors need to be cautious. However, tourists can safely travel on the road due to good maintenance. Show more
Where is Jones Pass located in Colorado?
Jones Pass is found in Clear Creek County in the Rocky Mountains near Idaho Springs, Colorado. At 12,454 ft, it crosses the Continental Divide. Accessing Jones Pass is easy via a steep and narrow dirt road. However, tourists must have a 4WD car to reach the top. Show more
What is the elevation gain on the Jones Pass Trail?
Hikers of all levels can enjoy the 7.1-mile Jones Pass Trail's moderate 2,017 ft elevation gain, with picturesque views. Wildflowers in Summer add to the scenic beauty of the trail, making it an adventurous and fulfilling experience for visitors. Show more
What is the rating of the Jones Pass Trail and when are its gates open?
Jones Pass Trail is a moderate-rated trail that is accessible to visitors from June 15 to November 15. However, tourists need to be careful due to its high elevation exceeding 12000 ft. Jones Pass Trail gates remain open from July 15 to August 15, the perfect time for visitors to appreciate the trail's beauty, bask in the summer sunshine and discover the wildlife. Show more
Are there any specific precautions that visitors need to take when camping overnight at Jones Pass?
Camping at Jones Pass requires campers to be mindful of the high winds that are typical in this area. Although campsites are present on each side of the road, visitors who want to avoid crowds should move up. Additionally, tourists need to pack warm and waterproof clothing, as the temperature at the pass drops significantly at night. Show more
