Mosca Pass Trail
A forested creek-side climb to a historic low pass through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Route overview
Follow the signed trail 3.5 mi / 5.7 km one way to Mosca Pass and return the same way.
The route follows a small creek through aspen and evergreen forest to Mosca Pass, a travel corridor used by Indigenous people and later settlers. Shade reduces dune heat, but elevation, storms and seasonal wildlife remain relevant.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- San Luis Valley and Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Colorado
- Distance
- 7 mi / 11.4 km round trip
- Typical duration
- Approximately 4–6 hours round trip; NPS states 2–3 hours one way to the pass
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not officially stated on the current hiking page
- Best season
- Late spring through autumn when snow-free
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day-hiking permit; entrance fee applies
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Altitude, thunderstorms, snow, mud, wildlife and hunting-season visibility
Highlights
Aspen forest, creek corridor, historic pass and mountain scenery
Why find a buddy
A buddy helps manage pacing and weather decisions on the sustained climb and improves wildlife awareness.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.