Cochetopea Pass

Along the Continental Divide, Cochetopa Pass is a 10,067' mountain pass with rich human history. It connects the San Luis Valley with Gunnison Valley and the towns of Saguache and Gunnison.

Members of the Ute Indian Tribe are among the earliest known inhabitants of the Cochetopa Hills in recent human history. By the time Spanish explorers reached the area, they noted that the native big game hunters had worn down the trail to Cochetopa Pass from heavy usage. In the Ute language, the word “Cochetopa” translates to “Pass of the Buffalo.”

European settlers gained interest in the pass when locating possible railway lines across the Continental Divide. In 1848, the first effort to establish the route resulted in several men and horses freezing to death while others resorted to cannibalism. A few members of the party survived with help from the native Ute Indians.

The next effort to build a railway occurred 5 years later. After the expedition’s leader, Captain Gunnison, was killed by native Indians, the project was moved north to Wyoming. By 1874, the Saguache – San Juan Toll Road became the first wagon route to traverse Cochetopa Pass.

Activities

At the summit, visitors can access the Continental Divide Trail to enjoy the aspen trees and mountain views. Along the road to and from the pass, there are many primitive camping opportunities available.

Read about the Camping near Alamosa, Sand Dunes, and around the San Luis Valley.