Kenosha Pass Railroad Station Documentary Site: 1

Facility · Colorado ·

Managed by the USDA Forest Service

Pike National Forest (NF) · Open Access

10,024 ft
Elevation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WELCOME TO KENOSHA PASS

Long ago Ute hunters traveled over Kenosha Pass in their search for bison, deer, elk, and other game that thrived in South Park. When gold and silver were discovered in Colorado's mountains, mining companies sprung up, creating the towns of Leadvile, Fairplay and Tarryall. The hunting rail because a toll road and stage line, bringing businesses catering to the mining industry. By 1879, the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad was completed, bringing supplies and carrying away ore to be smelted for its silver.

Today, South Park consists of privately owned ranches, public lands, and the communities of Jefferson, Como, Fairplay and Hartsel.

TREAD THE TRAILS -- FOLLOW THE RAILS

The trail before you follows an old railroad bed. The tracks and ties lead to a small wetland, where you may see waterfowl and aquatic life. Pets can harass wildlife. Please keep them off the trail to the wetland.

 The trail to your left leads to an overlook with a magnificent view of South Park. This great volley was formerly known was "Bayou Salado", for the salt beds it contains.

 MUNCH A LUNCH

Camping sites are located along the circular drive behind you. Leave your site cleaner than you found it. A Day Use fee is required for picnic use.

CAMP OUT

Developed Campgrounds on both sides of US Highway 285 provide tables, fire rings, and toilets. A fee is required.

RIDE A BIKE -- TAKE A HIKE

Trails accessed from here offer ideal terrain for mountain bikers, hikers, and horseback riders to explore the high country. Please stay on the trails.

 HERE TO HUNT?

Hunting is permitted at Kenosha Pass, regulated by the Colorado Division of Wildlife. Check current regulations. Please respect the rights of private property owners nearby.

SEASONAL SPLENDOR

Fall colors of changing aspen turn hillsides gold and orange. Winter snows on the pass make a haven for crosscountry skiers and snowmobilers. Winter travel can be treacherous. Check closures and avalanche conditions before you set out.

Getting there

39.41280, -105.75977 · 39°24'46.1"N 105°45'35.2"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 75°F in Jul, down to 33°F in Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F343643495970757266544233
Low °F991622303843423525179
Precip in0.60.71.01.51.71.42.62.31.41.00.70.6

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 5.5 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Member photos

Common questions about Kenosha Pass Railroad Station Documentary Site: 1

Can you reserve a site at Kenosha Pass Railroad Station Documentary Site: 1?
No. Kenosha Pass Railroad Station Documentary Site: 1 is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.

Camping near Kenosha Pass Railroad Station Documentary Site: 1

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.