Highest Point: 11,990 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Filed Under: Hiking, Skiing
The pass is located on the Continental Divide in the Front Range west of Denver. U.S. Route 6 traverses the pass; the road is considered to be especially treacherous during the winter months. The construction of the Eisenhower Tunnel in the 1970s allowed motorists on Interstate 70 to avoid crossing the pass directly. Trucks that cannot pass through the tunnel must still cross the pass on US 6. Loveland Ski Area is located at the eastern end of the pass, and Arapahoe Basin is on the west side. The pass itself is a popular destination for backcountry skiers. Occasionally during the winter, the pass road may be closed by a blizzard and all traffic must use the tunnel, even the normally forbidden HAZMAT-carrying vehicles.
There are several popular ski runs on the pass, but mainly two options - east of the Continental Divide or West of the Continental Divide. The east side usually has the best snow and the least avalanche danger. A popular run to make is from anywhere around the pass down to the road at the bottom of the pass, and then you can usually easily hitch a ride back to the top. There is parking at the top, but it is limited and you should not block the road or any traffic - remember this is a major road even though it may not appear so.
Whatever you do, be responsible and check the avalanche forecast before you go out. This area gets lots of ski and snowboard traffic, but don't let that lull you into feeling safe. This is backcountry skiing.
Directions
From I-70 take the Loveland Pass exit just on the east side of the Eisenhower Tunnel. Pass Loveland Ski Area and drive up the curvy road to the top of the pass. Parking is also available at the bottom of the run about two miles below the pass summit.
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