A memorable road trip to Black Sage Pass

Black Sage Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.976m (9,763ft) above the sea level, located in Gunnison County, in the U.S. state of Colorado.

Black Sage Pass

Located in the Gunnison National Forest, the road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called County Road 887. The pass links Whitepine and Waunita Hot Springs. The road is graded on the east side, becoming a two track on the west side as it crosses Wuanita Park.

Always check the weather forecast before you start your journey: adverse conditions are common. There are a number of nice campsites in this area for a weekend of exploring. The pass is named for nearby Black Sage Peak.

Under dry conditions, passenger vehicles can handle this road. The pass road is 10.78km (6.7 miles) long, running west-east from County Road 774A to County Road 888. Keep your eyes peeled for moose in the steep gulleys along the road.
Pic: Eric Yackel