Driving San Juan County Road 2 in Colorado for Ghost Towns, Gulches and Big Views

Often seen as the connector between Cinnamon Pass and Engineer Pass, San Juan County Road 2 in Colorado is a destination all on its own and one of the most scenic drives near Silverton. With ghost towns, mining ruins, spur trails, waterfalls, and some of the most stunning views in the San Juans, CR 2 Silverton offers a perfect blend of beauty, history, and accessibility.

We drove the portion between Cinnamon and Engineer on our Alpine Loop Trail day, and then rode the entire CR 2 on a different day to get the whole experience.

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About San Juan County Road 2

San Juan County Road 2 (use code ‘thefaiolas’ for 25% off a Trails Offroad subscription) starts right in downtown Silverton, Colorado, following the Animas River Valley north. The first two miles are paved, but it quickly turns to gravel as you climb into the high country. The route covers roughly 12.8 miles and reaches elevations above 12,000 feet before joining the Alpine Loop after Animas Forks.

The drive is generally easy, making it an excellent option for anyone with a high-clearance vehicle. The road is wide enough for two cars to pass in most places, with only occasional narrow stretches. Think of it as a scenic corridor through history—a place where nearly every spur road leads to another story from the mining boom days.

You’ll see all kinds of rigs out here—pickup trucks and even a few passenger cars make it to Animas Forks from Silverton. High clearance still makes the day more comfortable, especially if you plan to add spur trails.

Spur Trails and Points of Interest off San Juan County Road 2

One of the best parts about CR 2 is the side trips. Each gulch and spur trail offers a unique look at the San Juans’ history and beauty. Here are a few favorites worth adding to your list:

Cunningham Gulch

Just ten minutes east of Silverton, Cunningham Gulch is a 4.6-mile out-and-back trail that follows Cunningham Creek past waterfalls and mining remnants. It’s a peaceful area for camping, fishing, or a short scenic drive.

Stony Pass

For something more adventurous, Stony Pass climbs to 12,610 feet and stretches all the way to Creede. It’s 36.5 miles long and you cross the Continental Divide. However, it’s a popular trail to get you to Kite Lake or Rocky Gulch Road. It was once a major supply route into Silverton before the railroad was established.

Rocky Gulch Road (Buffalo Boy Tram House Spur)

A short but steep climb with big rewards—panoramic views and a visit to the 1930 Buffalo Boy Tram House, where mining cables still hang across the mountainside.

Maggie Gulch

If you prefer something quieter, Maggie Gulch is a 4.8-mile drive ending at the historic Intersection Mill. It’s a great choice for beginners who want alpine views and history without the stress.

Minnie Gulch

Minnie Gulch is 6.09-miles and offers more amazing views. The Caledonia Mill Boarding House still stands tall, offering one of the best-preserved glimpses of Colorado’s mining days—missing only its windows!

Eureka Gulch

This easy 4.6-mile route climbs past the old Sunnyside Mine, site of the infamous Lake Emma collapse in 1978. You can still see remnants of the mine and its foundations today.

Picayne and Placer Gulches

A moderate loop climbs up Picayne Gulch, crosses a high ridge, and descends Placer Gulch, connecting back to California Pass. This route combines mining ruins, alpine meadows, and wide-open San Juan views.

Burns Gulch

A short but stunning trail that crosses the Animas River and climbs toward Jones Mountain and Niagara Peak. From the top, the view back toward Animas Forks is unforgettable.

Animas Forks

Founded in 1873, this high-altitude settlement once bustled with miners, a hotel, and even its own newspaper. Several restored buildings are open for self-guided exploration, but please be cautious as the structures are fragile.

It’s the perfect lunch stop. Set up your chairs, relax, and enjoy the mountain air while taking in the views before continuing toward California Pass and the Alpine Loop.

California Pass

If you’re feeling adventurous after exploring Animas Forks, continue up California Pass. This 4.3-mile moderate trail tops out at 12,923 feet, offering breathtaking views of Lake Como and its shimmering turquoise water. From the summit, you’ll also get sweeping panoramas of Animas Forks and the historic Frisco Mill below.

Connecting to Cinnamon and Engineer Pass

If you continue on County Road 2 up the switchbacks, you can go right/east to Cinnamon Pass, or you can continue north toward Engineer Pass.

Each direction offers its own kind of adventure—Cinnamon is a bit easier with gentler grades, while Engineer brings steeper climbs. Both offer the most amazing views.

When to Visit San Juan County Road 2

Like most roads in the San Juans, CR 2 is open seasonally. The best time to visit is from late June through September, depending on snow levels. July and August bring wildflowers, green valleys, and crisp alpine air. Early morning or in the evening is ideal for fewer vehicles.

Season: late June–September; snow can linger into July.

Best hours: early morning or golden hour for fewer vehicles and softer light.

Day-use tip: You can fill an entire day with 3–4 gulches, Animas Forks, and one pass.

Weather: storms pop up fast; we had on-and-off rain all day and still loved it.

Camping Near CR 2

Camping is plentiful along San Juan County Road 2. You’ll find designated dispersed sites in Cunningham Gulch and several scenic pullouts along the Animas River. For something more established, try the campgrounds near Silverton or set up at Lake San Cristobal if you’re exploring from the Lake City side.

Most sites are primitive, so bring everything you need—and always follow Leave No Trace principles. Nights at 10,000+ feet can get chilly even in summer, so pack accordingly.

Before You Go: Safety and Tips

Although San Juan County Road 2 is one of the more manageable trails, preparation is crucial. Bring plenty of food, water, and layers for changing conditions. Download offline maps, since there’s no cell service once you leave Silverton.

Keep your speed slow—there are blind corners, wildlife crossings, and plenty of ATVs sharing the road. Uphill traffic has the right of way, but as always, use common sense. Gas up in Silverton before you go; there’s nothing once you’re out in the gulches. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Therefore, keep a close eye on the conditions and be prepared for anything.

Expect ATVs and side-by-sides, especially on weekends. Slow down for blind corners, and use hand signals if you’re in a group to show how many vehicles are behind you. Uphill traffic has the right of way, but common sense wins: if there’s an easy pullout, take it.

Why You Should Drive San Juan County Road 2

San Juan County Road 2 offers expansive San Juan views without the stress of navigating narrow, shelf-like roads. This scenic Colorado route combines history, ghost towns, and alpine beauty in one unforgettable drive. As a bonus, you get mining ruins, ghost towns, and alpine meadows. This road captures everything people love about Colorado’s backcountry.

💬 Have you driven San Juan County Road 2 or explored any of its side trails? We’d love to hear your story! Share your favorite ghost town or camping spot at thefaiolas.com/sayhi.

FAQs about San Juan County Road 2