MATCHED TO YOUFirst timerBig passesShort hikesFall aspensStargazing
DAY1
Denver to Kenosha Pass
~70 MI~2 HRPAVED, US 285
Collect Aspen at 10 AM and follow US 285 through Bailey and Grant to Kenosha Pass. Settle into your reserved campsite and keep the first afternoon close to camp.
BaileyA practical stop for food on the way
Kenosha PassMountain views around 10,000 ft
Kenosha Pass Campground, subject to reservationPlan three nights at the same campground. Confirm operating dates and site suitability before booking.
The campground season is typically late May through September. These trip months are a planning window, not a guarantee of opening.
DAY2
Guanella Pass out and back
~70 MI~2 HR 30 MINPAVED SCENIC BYWAY
Return toward Grant and follow the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway toward Georgetown. Pause at the 11,669-foot summit when conditions allow, then retrace the byway to your Kenosha basecamp.
Guanella Pass summitUse signed parking and watch the weather
GeorgetownOptional lunch stop before returning
Return to your reserved Kenosha Pass siteNo camping reservation is included with the truck.
The byway is 22 miles between Georgetown and Grant. Check road status before setting out; turn around if weather deteriorates.
DAY3
A quiet day at Kenosha
~10 MI~30 MINPAVED ACCESS ROADS
Leave the truck at camp for a slower day. Walk a comfortable out-and-back section of the Colorado Trail from the pass, then return for dinner. Save the evening for the sky if conditions are clear.
Colorado Trail at Kenosha PassChoose your own turnaround point
An evening at campStargazing depends on weather and moonlight
Return to your reserved Kenosha Pass siteFollow current fire restrictions and store food securely.
Fall color is variable. Late September can be busy, and nights may drop below freezing.
DAY4
US 285 back to Denver
~70 MI~2 HRPAVED, US 285
Have breakfast, pack the camper down and follow US 285 back to Denver. Leave a generous traffic buffer and refuel before the 4 PM handover.
Fuel stopSame fuel level as pickup, 87 octane or higher