jnl81

Anyone know what the actual drive time is during the summertime (mid June) to go from the Telluride area to Ouray and Silverton? Is Ophir Pass a 4-wheel drive only?

Bobbie

I don't think I'd do Ophir Pass in anything but a 4X4 in June. Maybe in August you could do it, but I wouldn't recommend it in June. If you drive on the highway it should take you about an hour or so if there's no construction.

travellyn

Bobbie's right. In June, there's a good chance that Ophir Pass will still have snow. You can call the visitor's center in Silverton - (970) 387-5654 - for conditions. I've seen someone drive it in a Neon one September, but I wouldn't do it in anything but a 4WD. The very low gears on 4WDs help a lot in keeping your speed down.

If you plan to do a loop, it's easier to drive Ophir Pass from east to west than vice versa, because the steep dropoffs are on the south side. It's a one lane road, pretty rough, with no guard rails. It gets harrowing when you have to pass someone anywhere other than a turnout.

I took my parents on Ophir Pass a few years ago in an old jeep. Unfortunately, we went west to east. I drove that road so poorly that my mother got out and walked along the narrowest section.

jnl81

Thanks ya'll! We definately will take the longer route around! When we were there with my parents 11 years ago, we drove from Durango to Silverton and Ouray, but we did not get on the other side of the highway, where Telluride is. We are staying at Priest Gulch campground and will be doing most of our driving in that area.

xxx

You're in for a treat, this is one of the country's most beautiful areas. Have fun!