From the Great Sand Dunes, Mosca Pass Trail begins from the Montville Parking Area. The trail follows Mosca Creek to the top of Mosca Pass.

Pack a lunch for this 3.5 mile journey to the top of Mosca Pass. It is not too difficult, but has an elevation gain of 1,463 feet. A toll road was built over this pass in the late 1800's. A flash flood in 1911 destroyed the road and it was abandoned as a passageway over the mountains.

The trail begins in a steep, walled canyon and proceeds through piñon-juniper, aspen and spruce-fir forests. The trail climbs moderately fast and near the top of the trail, the forests are transformed into lush, grassy slopes. Watch for wildlife; each year, visitors report bear sightings.

Directions: From La Veta Pass, Colorado, Turn north on Pass Creek Road 11.5 miles to Forest Development Road # 408, 7 miles to the junction with Forest Road 407. Take Forest Road 407, 6 miles to Mosca Pass.

Elevation: 8,200 feet

Ending Elevation: 8,720 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,470 feet

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

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