Is Schofield Pass open year-round?

Season: Late Jun-Sep (snowpack blocks Devil's Punchbowl until summer). Always verify current trail status with the managing agency before traveling.

Do I need a permit to ride Schofield Pass?

No specific OHV permit is required, though Gunnison NF; standard MVUM rules. Standard rules of the managing agency still apply.

What vehicles are allowed?

Allowed vehicle types: Jeep, UTV, Side-by-side. Always confirm street-legal and OHV-registration requirements for your state.

USFS · US Forest ServiceAdvanced (4/5)

Schofield Pass

Crested Butte, CO

Difficulty 4/5 — Advanced terrain

This trail typically requires a winch, spotter, and at least one buddy vehicle. Carry recovery gear, communication (GMRS/satellite), and ride within your skill level. Solo travel is strongly discouraged. Verify current trail status with the managing agency before going.

Length

14 mi

Season

Late Jun-Sep (snowpack blocks Devil's Punchbowl until summer)

Day-use fee

Free

Permit

Not required

Trail difficulty

Advanced · 4/5

Rated on PickRV's editorial 1 (novice) to 5 (extreme) scale.

Vehicle types allowed

JeepUTVSide-by-side

Permit and access

No specific OHV permit

Gunnison NF; standard MVUM rules.

Known hazards

Devil's Punchbowl shelf (no margin for error)
Cliff exposure 800+ ft
Snowmelt washouts

Editorial tip

If you're not 100% sure about Devil's Punchbowl, run Schofield from the Crested Butte side and turn around — the south approach is dramatically safer.

— PickRV editorial team

Official managing-agency source

Trail conditions, permit rates, and seasonal closures change. Always verify the current state of this trail with the managing agency before you ride.

US Forest Service page

https://www.fs.usda.gov/gmug

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Imogene Pass

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Plan the trip

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Questions about Schofield Pass

Is Schofield Pass open year-round?: Season: Late Jun-Sep (snowpack blocks Devil's Punchbowl until summer). Always verify current trail status with the managing agency before traveling.
Do I need a permit to ride Schofield Pass?: No specific OHV permit is required, though Gunnison NF; standard MVUM rules. Standard rules of the managing agency still apply.
What vehicles are allowed?: Allowed vehicle types: Jeep, UTV, Side-by-side. Always confirm street-legal and OHV-registration requirements for your state.

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Colorado rules · last verified 2026-05-10

Rental tax: 7.60%
Min driver age: 21+ std · 25+ Class A
Gravel roads: Varies by rig — verify with vendor
Generator quiet: 22:00-07:00