Engineer Pass Road is a point-to-point trail comprising just over twenty miles, found close to Ouray, Colorado. As a moderate trail, it is meant for people with experience, and that experience includes a gorgeously scenic waterfall. The route is best used between June and October. Though it may be November, there is no harm in planning your trip a year in advance.
Engineer Pass doesn’t carry the same notoriety when it comes to difficulty like Black Bear Pas or Imogene Pass for that matter. However, Engineer Pass does require greater skill than other four-wheel drive trails in the San Juan Mountains.
Engineer Pass kicks off about four miles south of Ouray off CO Hwy 550. The first pair of miles have the greatest difficulty and are extremely rugged. If you’re a novice attempting this road, it is wise to proceed with the utmost caution.
Once you see the sign for Poughkeepsie Gulch, head to the left. Though it may not look intimidating, appearances, in this case, are deceiving. Poughkeepsie Gulch ramps up the difficulty and is not for the inexperienced. In fact, if you are renting a Jeep® from a local Ouray agency, you may notice the fine print says Poughkeepsie Gulch is off-limits.
Happy off-roading!
This update is provided by Ouray Mountain Adventures, Incorporated. Our Ouray Jeep trails allow you to explore the Rocky Mountains and we offer full or half day reservations. For more information on our Ouray Jeep rental rates and options including available vehicles, rates, and rental policies, call 970.919.1005 or 888.919.3256. You can also visit us at 125 3rd Avenue, Ouray, Colorado 81427.