Full-Day UTV Tour: Miner’s Run Loop in Pitkin, Colorado (Taylor Park Area)

The Miner’s Run Loop is a full-day high-alpine UTV adventure through Colorado’s backcountry, combining mountain passes, historic ghost towns, and sweeping views of the Taylor Park region. Riders experience a mix of scenic terrain, elevation changes, and iconic stops that make this one of the most memorable off-road routes in central Colorado.

Route Summary

This ride begins in Pitkin, Colorado and forms a full loop through the Taylor Park trail system. The route includes three major high-elevation passes—Hancock Pass, Tin Cup Pass, and Cumberland Pass—all above 12,000 feet—along with stops in the historic mining towns of St. Elmo and Tin Cup. It is a full-day ride designed for guests who want a mix of scenery, history, and alpine riding in a single route.

Riders crossing Hancock Pass at over 12,000 feet in the Taylor Park backcountry.

Riders passing Mirror Lake en route to Tin Cup, Colorado on the Miner’s Run Loop.

Why This Route is Unique

The Miner’s Run Loop is one of the only UTV routes in the Taylor Park region that connects three separate high-alpine passes into a single day ride. In addition to crossing multiple 12,000+ foot summits, riders also experience two historic ghost towns and a full ride-out loop directly from Pitkin, eliminating the need for trailering. This combination of elevation, history, and accessibility makes it one of the most complete off-road experiences in central Colorado.

What You’ll See on the Route

• Hancock Pass (12,000+ ft alpine crossing)
• Historic ghost town of St. Elmo
• Tin Cup Pass (12,000+ ft mountain pass)
• Historic Tin Cup ghost town
• Optional stop at Frenchy’s for milkshakes
• Cumberland Pass (12,000+ ft return route)

Best Time to Ride

The Miner’s Run Loop is typically accessible from late June through October depending on snow conditions. High mountain passes such as Hancock Pass, Tin Cup Pass, and Cumberland Pass are usually only open during the summer and early fall months. Call for current trail conditions in the early season

Route Description

The Full-Day Miner’s Run Loop is one of the premier high-alpine UTV adventures near Pitkin in the Taylor Park area, and is also easily accessible from Gunnison and Crested Butte. This route features a full day of riding across multiple mountain passes, historic ghost towns, and some of the most scenic terrain in central Colorado.

From Pitkin, you’ll ride directly into the trail system—no trailering required—and begin your climb toward Hancock Pass, the first of several high-elevation crossings on this route. As you ascend above treeline, the terrain transitions from forested roads to more rugged, rocky sections with expansive alpine views. Hancock Pass sits above 12,000 feet and offers panoramic scenery in every direction.

Descending from Hancock, the route leads into the well-preserved ghost town of St. Elmo, one of Colorado’s most iconic mining towns. Riders often stop here to explore historic buildings and experience a glimpse into the region’s mining history.

From St. Elmo, the route continues up and over Tin Cup Pass, another 12,000+ foot crossing with sweeping alpine views. On the descent, you will pass the picturesque Mirror lake as you make your way into the historic town of Tin Cup, where riders can optionally stop at Frenchy’s for a milkshake if time allows.

The final leg of the journey climbs over Cumberland Pass, completing the loop with another high-alpine crossing before returning to Pitkin. This section offers a mix of smoother terrain and scenic overlooks.

Throughout the day, riders will experience a combination of maintained dirt roads, rocky sections, and high-elevation mountain terrain. While the route is not highly technical, it is best suited for riders comfortable with a full-day off-road adventure.

With three passes over 12,000 feet, multiple historic towns, and direct ride-out access from Pitkin, the Miner’s Run Loop is one of the most complete UTV experiences in the Taylor Park and Gunnison region.

Frequently Asked Questions