Shrine Pass Road connects Vail Pass to Red Cliff over a dirt route

Shrine Pass Road is one of Eagle County’s more approachable back roads. It leaves the top of Vail Pass and drops down to the old mining town of Red Cliff, a dirt route managed by the White River National Forest. In summer it is passable by most passenger cars, not just high-clearance rigs, and it opens up views toward Mount of the Holy Cross.

A few things make it worth understanding before you go. It is a Forest Service road, so it is gravel, narrow in spots, and shared with bikes, hikers, and dispersed campers. Conditions change with weather, and a road that is fine in August can be muddy and rutted after a storm. It is a scenic drive, not a quick shortcut.

It is also a seasonal road. It does not stay open to vehicles year-round, and the opening and closing dates shift with snow and conditions, so the drive that works in late summer may not be possible in late fall or spring.

Before driving Shrine Pass, check the road and trailhead status on the White River National Forest site, since openings, closures, and conditions change through the year.