At a Glance
- Total Distance: 63 miles
- Highest Pass: 12,800 ft
- Ghost Towns: 3+
- Full Loop Time: 8–10 hours
The Alpine Loop Route Overview
The Alpine Loop National Back Country Byway forms a figure-8 connecting Ouray, Silverton, and Lake City via Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass. The full loop is 63 miles and takes 8–10 hours with stops — most people split it over two days.
From Ouray, the most common approach takes County Road 2 (Engineer Pass road) south through the ghost towns of Rose's Cabin and Capitol City to the 12,800-foot Engineer Pass summit, then descends to Animas Forks.
Highlights Along the Route
Animas Forks ghost town is one of the best-preserved in Colorado — dozens of standing structures in a dramatic amphitheater basin at 11,200 feet. The massive two-story cabin with its bow window is one of the most photographed buildings in the San Juans.
American Basin, near the Cinnamon Pass arm of the loop, is the top wildflower destination in the San Juans in mid-July. The basin turns solid purple and gold with columbine and sunflowers.
Prepare and Book Your Alpine Loop Trip
Bring a full-size spare, recovery gear, and enough fuel for 100+ miles — gas stations don't exist along the route. Start early to beat afternoon thunderstorms. A satellite communicator is strongly recommended in this remote terrain.
The Lumberyard Condos at ouraycondos.com is 5 minutes from the Engineer Pass trailhead — the ideal pre-loop staging point. Book direct for best rates.