Music Pass

Overview

Music Pass is a short, rewarding climb to a high saddle in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, overlooking the Sand Creek drainage with sightlines toward the far-off dune field. It sits on the Preserve side of the park system, so it’s wilder and quieter than the main dunefield—but that remoteness also means more self-reliance.

Why it matters here

This pass sits above Sand Creek, one of the streams that helps move and “recycle” sand around the edges of the dunes. Along with nearby mountain passes, it’s part of the natural funnel that focuses winds and sand toward the dunefield, which is why the dunes here have grown so large and tall.

The hike

• Distance: about 2.4 miles out-and-back from the upper trailhead, with roughly 741 feet of gain.
• Effort: moderately challenging; altitude around the pass is roughly 11,450 feet, so pace yourself.
• Trail character: shady forest to start, then more open alpine terrain. Just before the pass, short spur paths to rock outcrops offer the best panoramas.
• Season: typically best June–October, when snow has melted and roads are passable.
• Dogs: allowed on leash.

Extending your day

From the pass you can continue into the Sand Creek basin:

• Lower and Upper Sand Creek Lakes: roughly 8 miles round trip from the Music Pass trailhead.
• Little Sand Creek Lakes: a bigger day at about 16 miles round trip.

Ambitious hikers also use this approach for Marble Mountain and other high-country objectives.

Getting there and road notes

Access is from the Wet Mountain Valley side near Westcliffe. The final ~2.5 miles to the upper Music Pass trailhead are narrow and rocky; high-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended. Without it, park lower where the Rainbow Trail crosses Music Pass Road and walk the remaining road miles to the upper trailhead. There’s a restroom at the lower parking area.

Weather, wildlife, and hunting

Expect fast-changing mountain weather and strong winds; afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so start early. The Preserve supports high-country wildlife (keep your distance and store food properly). Hunting is permitted in the Preserve during fall; wear bright colors and know the season dates if you’re visiting then.

Permits and logistics

Backpacking in the Preserve via Music Pass does not require the park’s online backcountry permit. However, if you leave a vehicle in the National Park while backpacking into the Preserve, you’ll need a free parking/camping permit from the visitor center. Day use at the trailhead is available around the clock.

Best time to visit

• Months: June–October for snow-free travel and alpine wildflowers.
• Time of day: Early morning for calmer winds, gentler light, and to dodge typical afternoon storms.
• Crowds: This side is far less busy than the main dunes area; weekdays are quietest.
• Photography: Morning light paints the basin and distant valley; late-day contrast can be dramatic if storms clear.