Kia Telluride gets stuck near Telluride, closing Colorado mountain pass
It might be peak fall color season in the Telluride area, but those who hoped to take in the view from the infamous Black Bear Pass or the popular via ferrata route might hit a snag.
According to the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office, Black Bear Pass has been closed until further notice due to public safety concerns after a man from South Carolina drove a Kia Telluride the wrong direction up the one-way road and got stuck. Others in the area advised the man not to do it, but he took the route anyway.
At last report, the vehicle was stuck “teetering” off the edge of one of the switchbacks, which poses a major risk for those below. The location of the vehicle is about three to four switchbacks up from the falls, with the wheels of the vehicle off the side of the road. Given its position, the vehicle is unstable.
According to authorities, it is not safe for other vehicles to drive around the stuck Kia and it will require a tow, though it is unknown when that towing will occur.
While the road remains open to Bridal Veil Falls, it’s closed after the parking lot, which blocks access to the popular via ferrata route in addition to Black Bear Pass. Bridal Veil Trail remains open.




