Pine Mountain

Traveling through the northwest reaches of the Uncompahgre National Forest, Pine Mountain, also known as County Road 6.3, is a short distance from the small town of Gateway and the fastest way into the national forest and the historic uranium mining district. The western trailhead begins in a sandy wash that may require four-wheel drive for larger vehicles. Once through the twisting scenic canyon, you begin loose dirt and rocky, 2,000' narrow ledge climb to over 7,800 feet in elevation. The 8-9% grade hill on 6.3 Road is one long, narrow obstacle in either direction. The road is wide enough for full-width vehicles, but the occasional narrow spots with intimidating exposure can be tricky for inexperienced drivers. Passing can be challenging but oncoming traffic is visible from a distance. The road is semi-maintained, so there are no obstacles on the route. Low-range gearing, offroad tires, and high clearance are required to complete the hill safely. Once at the top of Pine Mountain, the trail becomes much easier, and camping is limited to a couple of primitive spots along this section of trail. One campsite was large enough for several vehicles with tents, making a wonderful basecamp to explore the area's mining history.