A South Carolina man drove his Kia Telluride up the one-way Black Bear Road in Colorado. He became stuck on a precarious switchback, forcing authorities to close the entire pass. The incident occurred near the famous Bridal Veil Falls, blocking the treacherous mountain route.

The San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the vehicle was “teetering off the edge.” Despite being advised not to attempt the drive, the motorist proceeded. This led to a full closure for public safety until the SUV could be recovered.

Vehicle Recovery Operation on Precipitous Terrain

The Kia was lodged on a switchbank above the falls. Photos showed the SUV tilted and stuck in a pile of rocks. Its position was deemed highly unstable.

The sheriff’s office stated it was not safe to drive near the stranded Kia. A specialized towing operation was required to clear the path. Officials initially could not confirm when the recovery would be possible.

Pass Reopened Following Successful Tow

The closure impacted both Black Bear Pass and Bridal Veil Falls Road. However, the Bridal Veil Trail remained accessible to hikers. The situation drew significant local attention.

San Miguel County later announced the successful conclusion of the operation. “Black Bear Pass and Bridal Veil Road are now open,” officials stated. The confirmation came via an official social media update after the vehicle was towed.

The swift reopening of Black Bear Pass highlights the risks of ignoring safety advisories on Colorado’s high-altitude roads. This incident serves as a stark reminder for all drivers to respect local warnings and vehicle capability limits.

Info at your fingertips

Where exactly is Black Bear Pass located?

Black Bear Pass is a famous and challenging mountain pass in Colorado. It is situated in the San Juan Mountains near the town of Telluride. The route is known for its steep, one-way switchbacks and dramatic views.

What type of vehicle got stuck on the pass?

A Kia Telluride SUV was the vehicle that became stuck. The driver was from South Carolina. The incident blocked the narrow road completely.

How long was Black Bear Pass closed?

The pass was closed for approximately one day. Authorities closed it for safety until the recovery was complete. It reopened promptly after the Kia was successfully towed away.

Were any other roads affected by this incident?

Yes, the Bridal Veil Falls Road was also closed during the operation. This was due to its proximity to the stuck vehicle. The hiking trail, however, remained open to the public.

Why is Black Bear Pass considered dangerous?

The pass features extremely narrow sections and steep, exposed switchbacks. It is a one-way descent for most vehicles and requires high clearance and 4WD. Officials often warn drivers about its difficulty.

Trusted Sources: San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office, Associated Press, Reuters

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