Favorite Colorado Passes

Elevation: 12,100 feet
Location: T11S R87W
County: Gunnison
Topo: Marble
National Forest: White River
Other names: Coyote, Silver Creek

Avalanche Pass is accessible by foot on forest service trail #1971 in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. It divides the waters of the West Fork of Anthracite Creek to the north and Carbonate Creek to the south.

The pass is named for the nearby creek, which in turn is believed to be named for the avalanches that clear out the area each winter.

The earliest known regular use of the pass is around 1926, when it was a pack trail. Today's trail over the pass is well maintained, scenic, and has good views from the top.

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