A stock 4-wheel drive vehicle can make it over the pass, but due to the steps and the steep descent on the Telluride side of the pass, it is one-way only beginning before the steps. There is a warning sign for those that need to turn around before the one-way section begins. The road is rocky and treacherous, with steep drop-offs descending into Telluride.

For those that do not want to drive the pass, there are several Jeep tour companies in the area, so you can experience the trek with a professional. Hiking, motorcycles and ATVs are allowed on the pass also, but there are no ATVs allowed on the streets in town, so having a trailer to pick up your ATV is necessary at the end of the pass.

The trail head is one mile south of the summit of Red Mountain Pass (highway 550). There is a sign marking it as Black Bear Pass, Forest Service Road 823. The road gently winds and ascends, slowly becoming rockier and steeper. The summit is 12,840 feet, well above timberline, with an unforgettable 360 degree view of the San Juan Mountains. Descending from the pass begins with a fairly steep shelf road, winding around to what are known as the famous steps. The actual steps on are the right side of the road and a more reasonable path is right along the Ingram Creek. The steep descent into Telluride begins with tight switchbacks and even a drive through Ingram Falls. The scary part of the trail is over upon reaching the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls.

Black Bear Pass is an unforgettable journey that anyone should experience if they are not scared of heights. If you make it, find a shop in town that sells the "I Survived Black Bear Pass" t-shirt.

Lisa Wilson is a local Telluride blogger and photographer. You can see more of her work at Mountains Rule & Telluride Daily Photo and follow her on Twitter @ TellurideLisa.