Molas Pass to Engineer Mountain Trail Out-and-Back

About

The Molas Pass to Engineer Mountain Trail Out-and-Back is a 20.5-mile mountain biking route starting near Silverton, Colorado. The trailhead sits at Molas Pass, with parking available at the overlook or near Little Molas Lake. Riders cross the highway to begin the ascent on the Colorado Trail. The first three miles are entirely uphill with forgiving grades, allowing riders to turn around at any point. Beyond five miles, the trail enters forest, becoming narrower with steep cross slopes in places. Technical obstacles are few, though some riders may walk sections above cliff bands. The route passes Little Molas Lake and an old burn area before reaching muskeg terrain around the nine-mile mark. Karst features, including sinkholes and sinking streams, appear near the junction with the Engineer Mountain Trail. The trail is rated difficult, with typical completion times around seven hours. Seasonal access runs from April through October, depending on snow conditions. Riders should carry ample water and calories, preparing for variable weather including wind, rain, sleet, and hail. Pets are permitted. While the segment east of the junction passes through wilderness, mountain bikers must shuttle or descend via Engineer Mountain or Engine Creek trails to complete the loop.