Looking to run Black Bear 6/26/26

[GetnLostnCO]

Hello, we are planning to run Black Bear Pass on Friday, June 26th, pending it's open, and am wondering if anyone who has ran it before would like to join us? We have explored the Alpine Loop and have travelled other trails closer to the I-70 corridor, but would appreciate the camaraderie and guidance, especially when navigating the steps. Let me know. Thanks and safe wheeling!

Sponsored

 

[ALT2870]

Most years I'd say good luck on it being open. But between the lack of snow and the county actually doing stuff you might just be in luck. Engineer and Corkscrew are already open and Imogene isn't far behind, what a year.

 

[McRuss]

I've been over Black Bear a number of times but always on a motorcycle. I would hesitate to take my Glad over it only because of a couple of VERY sharp switchbacks. But I'm sure that it can be done!

 

[GI Grandpa]

Hello, we are planning to run Black Bear Pass on Friday, June 26th, pending it's open, and am wondering if anyone who has ran it before would like to join us? We have explored the Alpine Loop and have travelled other trails closer to the I-70 corridor, but would appreciate the camaraderie and guidance, especially when navigating the steps. Let me know. Thanks and safe wheeling!

Black Bear isn't scheduled to open until July 1st. I would check the San Miquel County website for road and trail info.

 

[ALT2870]

I've been over Black Bear a number of times but always on a motorcycle. I would hesitate to take my Glad over it only because of a couple of VERY sharp switchbacks. But I'm sure that it can be done!

In a Gladiator? I've never seen anyone say a Gladiator is too big, them and Tacomas do it all the time. Trucks handle the steps a lot better then short wheelbases. Apparently full size trucks also do it all the time. The first switch back is the worst but its just about not cutting it. I've heard with a spotter you can do it in three easily.

Black Bear is one of the most overhyped passes in the state when it comes to its technicality. You put these obstacles on flatter terrain and it's not that bad. The problem is there are high consequences if you do mess up.

 

[GI Grandpa]

In a Gladiator? I've never seen anyone say a Gladiator is too big, them and Tacomas do it all the time. Trucks handle the steps a lot better then short wheelbases. Apparently full size trucks also do it all the time. The first switch back is the worst but its just about not cutting it. I've heard with a spotter you can do it in three easily.

Black Bear is one of the most overhyped passes in the state when it comes to its technicality. You put these obstacles on flatter terrain and it's not that bad. The problem is there are high consequences if you do mess up.

You are correct, a Gladiator has no problem on Black Bear Pass. Switzerland of America takes their Ram 2500's with a 12-seat bed platform over it all the time.

 

[GI Grandpa]

Hello, we are planning to run Black Bear Pass on Friday, June 26th, pending it's open, and am wondering if anyone who has ran it before would like to join us? We have explored the Alpine Loop and have travelled other trails closer to the I-70 corridor, but would appreciate the camaraderie and guidance, especially when navigating the steps. Let me know. Thanks and safe wheeling!

In case you need it, here is the link to the San Miquel County Bridge and Road conditions page.
Road Conditions | San Miguel County, CO - Official Website

 

[McRuss]

OK, not a problem then...It has been about 15 years since I did it on a bike, big rigs have probably wallered out the track some anyway in that time.

 

[fourfa]

No problem in my Gladiator. Personally I wouldn’t make that first hairpin without getting out and spotting inch by inch, but you do you. If you get on a bad entry line you’ll want to back up and try again. However if you get on a bad exit line, hope your life insurance is paid up

Sponsored