RECOMMENDED RIDES
Road just made you want more dirt and you have plenty of time , then head to Corkscrew Pass . If not , head north on US550 for about 5 miles and turn left onto FS679 , the beginning of Ophir .
The rest will head north on Main Street Silverton . Once you get to the intersection , turn left onto FS10 for about 8 miles and then turn hard left onto FS11 , the entrance to Corkscrew Pass . Corkscrew Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of over 12,000 feet . It ’ s narrow and steep with several sharp switchbacks . It ’ s one of the highest mountain roads of Colorado and the views are fantastic . You will cross the Continental Divide and have a chance at some water crossings depending on the weather . Last time I was there , walls of snow were on either side . After you cross the peak , the west side is where the switchbacks begin and you realize you are on top of the world with a tremendous view of the mountains that most only get to see in pictures . Continue on this road until you get back to the pavement of US550 and head south to FS679 .
At this point , you are back on the main route and heading west onto Ophir Pass . Ophir Pass is 11,789 feet above sea level and is a jeep road , but conditions change year to year so it can become challenging at times as rocks move and ruts form . We are looking at 10 miles of dirt and gravel with the easy section being on the east side and the rougher section on the west side . This route will take us to CO145 heading south to Lizard Head Pass with an elevation of 10,246 feet and spectacular views of the San Juan Skyway . The steep pass led to the development of the famous “ Galloping Goose ” railcars .
There are hiking trails to explore on top of the pass . I recommend walking around and seeing sights that aren ’ t available from the seat of your motorcycle . After this section you are almost done with the loop . Continue on 145 to 184 and turn left , which gets you heading back east . 184 dumps you off onto US160 heading east and you cannot miss Durango . After this grand ride you will be able to tell your friends of the unbelievable sights you have seen from the seat of a motorcycle and the passes you have conquered that few others have been able to see . Of course , this just leads to dreams of your next great adventure . See you at the Super State Rally in Colorado 2021 . CMA
John Jr and Holly Ogden oversee the South Central Region as National Evangelist .
11⎪January 2021⎪www . cmausa . org