John Brooks – You, Me and The Dock’s Wilderness King, brings us another great fall featured photo article. Waunita Pass, Colorado at 10,266 feet above sea level offers lots of magnificent views and scenery.
Waunita Pass is part of the Gunnison National Forest and is within miles of the Continental Divide.
In the 1800’s and early 1900’s, the roads that breach the pass were used to transport silver and gold that were mined in the neighboring mountains.
The dirt trails are lined with a mixture of aspen and pine trees, thus giving the landscape a dimensional flare. These narrow paths with their colorful foliage – pictured right, reach out towards the shadowing skies above.
The trails were also used for traveling between Pitkin and Tomichi districts. John, being the Wildness King likes to explore these dirt roads on his four wheeler every chance he gets.
The various trails that intertwine through the dense forest intermittently offer broad views that look down into the valleys below. By noticing all the amber colors, fall is still arriving.
The thick forest that covers the summits terrain can be very treacherous during the winter months. Most of the backwoods trails can be traveled by foot and then is only recommended to be done by experienced survivalist. They can also be explored with a reliable snowmobile and professional operator.
Waunita Pass neighbors many familiar Colorado destinations such as Whisky Creek, Copper Mountain and Independence Gulch.
Just off State Highway 50 and below Tomichi Doom is Waunita Hot Springs Geothermal area. The land is filled with topographic terrain that can be explored by foot or 4WD. There are a few parcels of private land in the vicinity. Always be aware of posted signage and fencing.
Again, the Wilderness King provided us with an awesome photo tour of some of Colorado’s most rugged backwoods. The Rocky Mountain region has some of the most beautiful and gorgeous unspoiled wilderness our country has to offer. This is truly nature at is finest.
Photographer: John Brooks
Story outline: John Brooks
Featured segment: Wilderness King
Enhanced dialog & formatting: Anthony Scopel
Associate editor: Maureen Scopel
Technical support & digital mastering: Matt Kemper
Publisher: You, Me and The Dock