Attractions and Considerations:

This trail originated as a wagon road in 1867, connecting towns on the western slope of the Continental Divide with the eastern slope towns. This road is the highest pass on the Continental Divide. Most of the trail is above timberline so beware of afternoon thundershowers and lightning.

Most mines are privately owned. Respect all private property. The Peru Creek area is rich in mining history but remaining structures may be unsafe and should be avoided.

Hints and Suggestions:

*Most of the trail crosses talus slopes and fragile alpine flowers. Please walk on rocks whenever possible to prevent degradation of the delicate alpine tundra.

*There may be snow on the trail even in August, it is advisable to carry an ice axe if hiking this trail early in the year.

*This trail is not recommended due to talus slopes and snow fields.

Directions: From Vail, Travel 29 miles east on I-70 to Silverthorne. Travel east on U.S. Highway 6 past Keystone, turn right onto Montezuma Road,FDR 5. Follow this road for 4.6 miles, turn left onto Peru Creek Road. Follow the dirt road for 5 miles to the base of an old mine (Shoe Basin Mine). Park at the Argentine Trail Parking Area and walk 0.3 miles up the road to the trailhead on the right.

Elevation: 11,000 feet

Ending Elevation: 13,207 feet

Elevation Gain: 2,207 feet

Usage: Light

Difficulty: Strenuous

Visitor Information