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Pearl Pass CO vehicle capability?

Hipbilly

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Jimmy
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I just got back from a family road trip to Crested Butte, CO. before the trip, I did some quick research and learned about Pearl Pass Rd, and was intrigued; not just by a trail over the mountain, but a trail that cut the 3hr drive to aspen down to 22 miles (and probably 6hrs? dunno).
I only found enough time to run about 5 miles in (9 from Hwy 135), turn around, and come back. If i had been in my FJ (a "built overlander"), I would have had the confidence to press on; however, being in my bone stock 6MT Sport (plus 285 TA/KO2 and a 1.5" terraflex kit), I was unsure about pressing to far alone.

There is a strong likelihood we'll be going back next summer, so What I'm curious to know from those who have ran the whole trail is:
What would you consider the minimum Gladiator build to run this trail? is clearance an issue with only a 1.5" spacer lift and 285 tires? Will lockers be needed on some of the wet stone ledges?

How much time should I budget for the whole trip to Aspen? If its really 6hrs, as I've read, it'd be a full 12hr day of wheeling there and back. That's too much, I'd camp.

Here's some drone footage to talk about too, I'm still learning which way's up on this thing...

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dano

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what's your storage system in the bed?
 
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Hipbilly

Hipbilly

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what's your storage system in the bed?
It's a Hardigg box (mil surp, company owned by Pelican) I stumbled across at a gun show; tough roto-molded HDPE, sits on felt-padded aluminum legs I made and attaches to the d-rings with two stainless turnbuckles.
 

dirtlimo

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Ran this a couple years ago, Gun-Aspen route in my JK on 37's. And another on 35's, no issues there :) Had a good friend in his taco on 33's and he made it fine. Its not overtly difficult, but the rock "garden" is a bit slow. After that I think its smooth sailing to the top and maybe one area on the way down where a spotter was needed. Took about 8hrs with stops. I guess my biggest concern would be sidewall protection on the rocks. And of course if you could have at least one other rig with you. Hope this helps
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