Cross Mountain: A High‑Alpine UTV Traverse from Pitkin to Taylor Park

PITKIN GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Cross Mountain: A High‑Alpine UTV Traverse from Pitkin to Taylor Park

A full‑day, 9‑hour guided UTV loop from Pitkin that climbs Cumberland Pass and reaches the summit of Cross Mountain — this guide lays out the route, highlights, and practical details for the adventure.

Cross Mountain: A High‑Alpine UTV Traverse from Pitkin to Taylor Park.

Duration
9 Hours (8am - 5pm)
Location
Pitkin
Operator
Silver Plume Rentals
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

The Full Day Cross Mountain Adventure runs out of Pitkin, Colorado, carrying riders across Cumberland Pass and into the wide, alpine sweep of Union Park before climbing to the summit of Cross Mountain for panoramic views over Taylor Park. It’s a destination‑driven UTV route with high elevation, varied terrain and a true backcountry feel that rewards a full day on the trail.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE SUMMIT

Cross Mountain: A True Destination Viewpoint

The defining moment of the day is the climb to Cross Mountain’s summit — an accessible high‑alpine viewpoint reached by UTV that offers sweeping, unobstructed panoramas across Taylor Park and the surrounding ranges.

THE ROUTE

Varied High‑Country Terrain

Riders traverse over 12,000‑foot Cumberland Pass, descend into the open alpine valley of Union Park and move between forested trails and wide‑open high‑elevation country — a mix that keeps the ride engaging throughout the day.

THE BACKCOUNTRY

Wildlife, Optional Stops and Flexible Pacing

Quieter sections like Slaughterhouse Gulch and Union Park can yield wildlife sightings, including moose; the route also offers optional stops at the Taylor Park Trading Post and the historic town of Tin Cup for food or a break, letting riders customize the pace of their day.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

Expect a full, purposeful day in a UTV: crossing Cumberland Pass at high elevation, rolling through open valleys and forested stretches, and making a focused push to the summit of Cross Mountain before returning via Taylor Park and Tin Cup. The day is built around reaching the summit viewpoint while still allowing optional stops and a measured backcountry tempo.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Confident beginnersSuitable for confident beginners looking for a guided, destination‑driven day in varied terrain.
2
Experienced ridersA good match for experienced UTV riders seeking big elevation gains and high‑alpine views.
3
Drivers (age 25+)Ages 10 and older.
4
Day‑trippers after summit viewsIdeal for travelers who want a single, rewarding summit destination rather than a simple scenic loop.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

The tour uses 2‑ or 4‑seat UTVs; choose the vehicle configuration that suits your party size. Confirm driver eligibility with the operator before booking.

Logistics

The operator runs this as a full‑day guided outing out of Pitkin, CO — plan for a multi‑hour day and confirm vehicle and driver details with Silver Plume Rentals.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Cross Mountain Adventure?

The outing is a full‑day, 9‑hour experience (8am–5pm).

Where do we meet the tour?

The tour meets in Pitkin, Colorado.

What seating configurations are available?

UTVs are available in 2‑seat and 4‑seat configurations.

Is there a driver age requirement?

Yes — drivers must meet the operator’s minimum age requirement (driver must be 25+).

What kind of terrain and stops should I expect?

Expect a mix of high mountain passes, forest trails and open alpine valleys with an out‑and‑back summit push; the route includes optional stops such as the Taylor Park Trading Post and the town of Tin Cup.