Alpine Tunnel Trail #1438
Alpine Tunnel Trail #1438 is a 2.8-mile trail that follows the railroad grade of the Denver, South Park and Pacific railroad from the historic townsite of Hancock to the caved-in east portal of the Alpine Tunnel. From the parking area, visitors can walk west along the old railroad grade to the east portal of the historic Alpine Tunnel. This is a high-altitude trail and is usually snow free from June until October.
The Alpine Tunnel is a 1,772-foot long narrow-gauge railroad tunnel at an elevation of 11,523 feet, which, in 1882, made it the highest railroad tunnel in North America! It was the first tunnel built through the Continental Divide in Colorado. Construction first began in 1880 and was meant to only last 6 months, but it dragged out for two years and was finally completed in 1882. However, the operation of the railroad through the tunnel was short lived. Due to damage in the tunnel, it was abandoned in 1910.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
Afternoon thunderstorms can arise very quickly at high elevations. Watch for storms and get down to a lower elevation if lightning threatens.
Special use permits are required for all commercial activities, including outfitting and guiding. For more information, contact the Salida Ranger District at 719-539-3591.
No
Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the old railroad grade in order to protect some of the remaining railroad ties that are visible in the railbed.
Getting There
Parking
Parking is available for six to eight vehicles.
Directions
From Nathrop, Highway 285, travel west on County Road 162 for about 17 miles to the junction with Forest Road 295. Turn left onto Forest Road 295 and travel south for about 5.5 miles to the old townsite of Hancock. From the Hancock sign, the road curves to the right, passing the access road for Hancock Pass (Forest Road 299). A small parking area is available and can accommodate six to eight vehicles.
Additional Information
Operated By
Salida Ranger District
Recreation Opportunities
Fishing - Lake & Pond Info
Follow the trail to the collapsed entrance of the east portal of the Alpine Tunnel, and then follow the trail up the ridge and drop down into Tunnel Lake.
Viewing Scenery Info
This trail follows the historic Alpine Tunnel railroad grade to the east portal of what was once the Alpine Tunnel. The views along the railroad grade are outstanding!
Interpretive Areas/Exhibits Info
A series of interpretive signs that detail the history of the Denver, South Park and Pacific railroad and the historic Alpine Tunnel are located along the trail.
Day Hikes Info
This trail is especially beautiful during July when the alpine wildflowers are blooming.
From the parking area, visitors can walk west along the old railroad grade to the east portal of the historic Alpine Tunnel. From the trail's end, at the caved-in entrance to the tunnel, the route continues up the hill for about 3/4 miles, traveling northeast and descending to the lake.
Biking - Mountain Info
Mountain bikers will enjoy the relatively short ride up the historic Alpine Tunnel Railroad grade. After leaving the parking area near Hancock, the trail travels west and winds up to a green gate. The trail begins on the other side of the gate.