A Jeep traveling along one of Colorado’s most treacherous mountain routes, Black Bear Pass, ended up upside down in a creek following a rollover crash last Friday, underscoring the perilous reputation of the route.
The San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office reported the accident happened near the top of the notorious “Stair Steeps” section—a rugged, one-way stretch above Telluride marked by sharp switchbacks and steep drop-offs. On this part of the trail, a vehicle can tumble from one switchback level to the next with even a small error.
The Jeep’s driver was pulled from the vehicle by other motorists and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported to the Telluride Medical Center using a sheriff’s department UTV, a specialized vehicle recently acquired for use in difficult terrain. Officials said this incident clearly demonstrates the value of the new UTV.
While the driver survived, the crash is a sobering reminder of the risks posed by Black Bear Pass, even for experienced off-roaders. Authorities continue to stress caution on the pass, noting that well-equipped vehicles and skilled drivers are no guarantee of safety against changing trail conditions and narrow margins for error.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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