Shrine Pass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shrine Pass |
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Shrine Pass Road, Red Cliff, United States
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| Elevation | 11,094 ft (3,381 m)NAVD 88 |
| Traversed by | Unpaved road |
| Location | Eagle / Summit counties, Colorado, U.S. |
| Range | Sawatch Range |
| Coordinates | 39°32′50″N 106°14′32″W / 39.54722°N 106.24222°W |
| Topo map | USGS Vail Pass |
 Shrine Pass
Location in Colorado
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Shrine Pass is a mountain pass high up in the Sawatch Range of central Colorado. It sits at an elevation of about 11,094 ft (3,381 m) above sea level. This pass is a beautiful spot known for its amazing views and outdoor activities.
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Where is Shrine Pass?
Shrine Pass is found in the northern part of the Sawatch Mountains. It sits right on the edge of Eagle and Summit counties in Colorado. The pass is west of Frisco and a short distance northwest of Vail Pass.
A narrow, unpaved road goes over the pass. This road connects the eastern side of Vail Pass (near Interstate 70) to the town of Red Cliff. Red Cliff is in the upper valley of the Eagle River. Most of the time, you need a special vehicle like a 4-wheel drive (4WD) or a jeep to travel this road. However, when the weather is good, stronger 2-wheel drive vehicles and small trucks can also make the trip.
A Bit of History
For a long time, Shrine Pass was the main way to travel between the upper valleys of the Blue River and the Eagle River. It was an important route for people moving through the mountains.
However, things changed when U.S. Highway 6 was built over the nearby Vail Pass. After that, Vail Pass became the main and most used route. Shrine Pass then became a quieter, more scenic road.
What Can You See and Do?
Shrine Pass is a popular spot for sightseeing, especially during the warmer months.
Summer and Autumn Views
During summer and autumn, the pass offers amazing views of nature. You can see wide meadows filled with colorful wildflowers. There are also beautiful pine woodlands all around. From the pass, you can even see distant views of Mount of the Holy Cross to the north. Many people love to visit in the autumn to see the trees change colors.
Winter Fun
When winter arrives, Shrine Pass turns into a snowy playground. It becomes a very popular place for snowmobile riding. It's also a great spot for cross-country skiing.
Skiers can start their adventure from the resort town of Vail in the Eagle Valley. They can take a car shuttle to the town of Red Cliff. From there, after a one-mile hike uphill, skiers can enjoy a long ten-mile downhill course back to Red Cliff.
