Jeep trip to Clear Lake and Bandora Mine, Colorado

Clear Lake Trail and Bandora Mine, Colorado - July 10th, 2016

We are members of the Western Slope Four Wheelers group.  This organization plans many 4-wheeling outings and we have been on a couple of these outings previously.  The people are friendly and the trips take us to beautiful places.  The latest trip took us to Clear Lake with 10 other Jeepers.  To start the trail we traveled from Montrose, CO via US 550 thru Ouray, CO toward Silverton, CO for about 45 miles to CR 7, a maintained gravel road with lots of RV parking along South Mineral Creek.  After leaving the gravel road it was a climb to the high mountain lake with beautiful wildflowers and spectacular photo opts.  The road was easy, steep, narrow and had numerous switchbacks to climb above timberline to the lake. 

 

 

 

Once we reached Clear Lake it looked like we were in Switzerland with the surrounding high mountains coated with green grass and blooming flowers. I think we even heard the Von Trapp Family singing from the Sound of Music … or was it the wind.

 

After a lunch break we all headed back down and some of the Jeepers decided to take a side trip to the Bandora Mine. History states that silver was discovered in the area and in 1940 the Blanco Mining Co. purchased the Bandora Mine and worked it until the 1950’s.  This trail transverses through dense forest and then opens up to hug the side of the mountain offering endless views. The trail passes below the Bandora Mine on the right and a cabin on the left and then ends into a meadow known as South Park.  Many vehicles were in this area as it is popular for hiking also.  It was a great area to stop, rest and be thankful for the great day that we had with the Jeep club.  The weather was perfect and the views breathtaking. 

Bandora Mine 

Beaver dam  

Marmot

 

Red Mountain

 



Until our next adventure – travel safe and enjoy life.