An early autumn snowfall surprises these aspen trees before their leaves have had a chance to drop. Owl Creek Pass (11,120 ft.) lies in the Uncompahgre Wilderness Area, once named Big Blue (for the magnificent blue mountain vistas). This scenic route, in Gunnison County, follows the Cimarron River, past the Silver Jack Reservoir and then west toward Ridgeway, Colorado.
Mostly unpaved, this very popular Colorado Scenic Byway offers some grand views, distinctive skylines, picturesque aspens stands, evergreen forests, hiking trails and plenty of camping opportunities.