Ophir Pass

The shortest way over the San Juans: 10 miles from US 550 south of Silverton to the town of Ophir and down to SR 145 for Telluride. The east side is easy graded road to the 11,789-ft summit; the west side is the famous part. A narrow one-lane shelf cut across a talus slope where downhill traffic yields and turning around isn't an option. Loose, rocky, intimidating on a loaded bike, over quickly. Best ridden west-to-east (climbing the shelf) if exposure bothers you. Open July–September. Fuel and food in Silverton and Telluride; camp at South Mineral Creek on the Silverton side. Pairs with the Alpine Loop for a full high-country day.