Red Hill Pass (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red Hill Pass |
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Red Hill Pass
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| Elevation | 10,051 ft (3,064 m) |
| Traversed by | U.S. Highway 285 |
| Location | Park County, Colorado, United States |
| Range | Mosquito Range |
| Topo map | USGS topo map |
Red Hill Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado, United States. It sits at an elevation of 10,051 feet (about 3,064 meters) above sea level. This pass is an important crossing point for U.S. Highway 285, connecting different parts of Colorado.
Exploring Red Hill Pass
Red Hill Pass is a well-known spot in the Rocky Mountains. It's a place where the highway climbs high over the land. Even though it's a mountain pass, it's usually easy for cars and trucks to drive through. It rarely closes, even when there's snow in the winter.
Where is Red Hill Pass?
The pass is found in Park County, at the northern edge of a large valley called South Park. It's part of the foothills of the Mosquito Range, which is a mountain range in Colorado. You can find the pass about 6 miles (or 10 kilometers) northeast of the town of Fairplay.
Driving Through the Pass
When you drive on U.S. Highway 285, you will cross right over Red Hill Pass. There aren't big signs at the very top of the pass saying "Red Hill Pass." However, you will see signs at the bottom of the hills on both sides that let you know you are approaching or leaving the pass. The road here is generally smooth and easy to navigate.
Why "Red Hill"?
The pass gets its name from the color of the hills around it. On both sides of the summit, and especially on the southern slopes, you'll see hills that are a distinct red color. This unique reddish dirt and rock give the pass its memorable name. It's a cool sight to see as you drive through the mountains!
