The Alpine Loop is a back country byway located in the northern San Juan Mountains of southern Colorado and is a spectacular tour of some of North America's most magnificent scenery. The Alpine Loop covers BLM land between the towns of Lake City, Silverton, Telluride and Ouray. The Alpine Loop can be accessed from any of these towns with Lake City having the closest staging area.

This is a great area to spend a couple of days ATV camping. The area offers some moderate challenges going up over Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass. Poughkeepsie Gulch also offers some challenges and Black Bear Pass provides the most challenging ride of the area. Black Bear Pass is a one-way trail that leads to Telluride, CO and ATV's have to be trailered the last 2 miles into town, so plan accordingly.

For the most part the trails are jeep roads. The area is an old mining district with several abandoned mines, cabins and the ghost town of Animas Forks. There are several signs along the trails with information about the history of the area. There are some rivers and steams to fish in and Lake San Cristobal to wash the dirt off at.

Unfortunately none of the surrounding towns are very ATV friendly and you have to trailer your ATV's if you stay at them. Also liability insurance is required for all unlicensed ATVs. But the area is some of the most beautiful country in the state of Colorado and the views from the many passes are really incredible.

The Alpine Loop offers plenty of trails and spectacular scenery and other than having to trailer your ATV to some of the challenging trails it is still one of Colorado's recommended rides. Plan your trip during the week to avoid the weekend crowds as this is popular area.