Alpine Loop Back Country Byway

The Alpine Loop Back Country Byway offers a rugged, immersive backcountry experience in Colorado's San Juan Mountains. This 4x4-only road traverses high alpine terrain up to 12,800 feet, connecting the historic towns of Lake City, Silverton, and Ouray. Along the way, visitors encounter sweeping vistas, abundant wildlife, vibrant wildflowers, and relics of the region's mining past — old mines, ghost towns, and natural wonders set against thrilling geography. Tackling the full loop is easily an all-day experience, but the main loop is only part of the adventure: miles of designated side routes let visitors take a short tour or extend their trip over multiple days. Features along the way include scenic overlooks, campgrounds, ghost towns, abandoned mines, interpretive kiosks and road pullouts, the Silverton Historic District and the Shenandoah-Dives Mill, both National Historic Landmarks, and an intersection with the Brunot Area, where tribal hunting and fishing rights are recognized and managed collaboratively. The Alpine Loop is a true backcountry experience, and preparation is essential. Tell someone your travel plans before you go, and do your homework ahead of time. Bring plenty of water, food, and fuel to reach your destination. Don't rely on electronics — cell phones and wireless devices do not work in most areas of the Alpine Loop — and download or print hard-copy maps before your trip, since you won't be able to pull them up on the road. The Alpine Loop is designated as a Type III BLM Back Country Byway, though some segments may qualify as Type I or II depending on road conditions and access, and it is also recognized as a Colorado State Scenic Byway. It is valued for its cultural, scenic, educational, historic, and wildlife-related intrinsic qualities.