Rabbit Ears is a mountainous pass in the Colorado high country known for its distinctive rabbit ears appearance of nearby peak that is prominently visible from the east side of the pass during good weather. It was named Rabbit Ears by early trappers because of its appearance and is now considered an historic marker for approaching Yampa Valley in Steamboat Springs in northern Colorado. Rabbit Ears Pass, boasting a summit of 9,246 ft., also encompasses the Continental Divide.
It's not your average mountain pass. Instead of climbing to a high point and then quickly descending, it climbs and stays there for several miles. It is one of the snowiest roads in Colorado. Reported snow pack totals in April 2022 reached 58 inches. Open year-round, the area within Routt Country Forest and the surrounding Rabbit Ears Pass offers a multitude of activities every season. In winter, it is known as the state's snowmobiling mecca while snowshoeing and cross country skiing are also enjoyed by many.
During the summer, camping, fishing, hiking and off-roading with ATV's are favorite activities. Travelers have to always be alert to the deer or elk crossing the road. This image, taken in August, showcases the beauty of the forest trees on the pass on a foggy day.