2013 Map of Poncha Pass

About this map

Poncha Pass serves as the critical high-altitude corridor between the San Isabel National Forest and Rio Grande National Forest along the border of Chaffee and Saguache counties. The landscape is defined by the headwaters of San Luis Creek and Poncha Creek, which drain the flanks of Cleveland Mountain and Poncha Mountain. Transportation patterns are dictated by the steep terrain, with Us 285 following the historic route through the pass, joined by high-elevation access points like the Granite Mountain Lodge Airport. Local heritage is anchored by long-standing agricultural holdings such as Blanchard Ranch and Shewalter Ranch. The network of backcountry routes, including the Rainbow Trail 1336 and Simmons Peak Trail 757, highlights the era's focus on forest management and recreational access through the Sangre de Cristo and Sawatch ranges.