CSP - Boreas Pass Traditional Geocache

Boreas Pass

This geocache is part of Colorado's South Park GeoTour, which means you can win prizes by finding 20 or more caches. Visit our website for more information and to download your GeoTour Passport!

Container Type: Lock & Lock
Code Location: Inside container
Access Info: This cache is located on USFS property.
Winter Access: Hike up from Como via the Gold Dust Trail or Boreas Pass Road.

The aptly named Boreas Pass rests at 11,492 feet along the Continental Divide north of Como. The route over the pass began with foot traffic as miners traversed the mountains separating Breckenridge from South Park but was later widened to a wagon road. Boreas Pass gained eventual notoriety in the 1880s when the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad laid narrow gauge tracks along the road to connect Como and Breckenridge. The harsh winters proved to be difficult so several snow sheds and snow fences were constructed along the line and eventually a small settlement formed to serve the railroad. Boreas lost its post office in 1905, the station burned in 1934, and rail service was discontinued soon after. Today, you can still visit the Section house and rent out its cabins during the winter.

Snow shed on Boreas Pass, courtesy of the Park County Local History Archives

Follow the only paved road through Como (Boreas Pass Road/County Road 33) for approximately 4 miles, then turn right to stay on CR 33, just past Roberts Cabin. The road to Boreas Pass is passable by most vehicles and parking is available at the top. Please use existing use trails when searching for this cache. Boreas Pass Road is generally open from June to February.