3rd-Gen Tundra on 37s Conquers Colorado: Engineer Pass, Mineral Creek, and Summit Hike

For off-road enthusiasts and adventurers alike, the Colorado Rockies offer some of the most challenging terrain and breathtaking vistas in the country. From steep climbs to high-altitude treks, this region brings every level of off-roading and hiking challenge you could want. In this adventure, a 3rd-gen Toyota Tundra fitted with 37-inch tires, and two avid adventurers ready to take on everything from technical off-road trails to the towering peaks of Colorado, made for an unforgettable journey.

The trip focused on a variety of trails and hikes, including Engineer Pass, Poughkipsee Gulch, and a bold attempt to summit Mount Sneffels, Colorado’s famous 14,150-foot peak. Along the way, unexpected hurdles, scenic moments, and a few lessons learned the hard way made it an adventure to remember.

The man behind the camera: Find Andy, known online as "Enjoy The Ride Dude," on both Instagram (@enjoytheridedude) and YouTube (Enjoy The Ride Dude). Like and subscribe!

Engineer Pass and Mineral Creek Trail: A Rocky Start with Stunning Views

The trip kicked off with a challenging off-road adventure up Engineer Pass, one of the most famous off-road trails in Colorado. Known for its rocky terrain and expansive views, Engineer Pass proved to be the perfect starting point for the Tundra-powered expedition. The trail began at Mineral Creek, a winding dirt road that quickly transitioned into a rocky, steep ascent. The Tundra, outfitted with 37-inch tires and enhanced suspension, had no problem tackling the rocky sections. The vehicle powered through the trail with ease, providing the perfect opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the San Juan Mountains.

As the trail climbed, the terrain became more difficult, testing both the truck’s capabilities and the driver’s skill. Reaching an elevation of 12,800 feet at the campsite for the night, it was clear the adventure was starting to take its toll. The crisp mountain air, however, quickly made it clear that the altitude was affecting both adventurers. Despite the challenges, a picturesque campsite was set up under the breathtaking sky.

The presence of bears in the area prompted some caution, and everyone made sure to store food safely and keep bear spray within reach. It wasn’t all smooth sailing—despite the natural beauty of the surroundings, a few logistical issues began to crop up.

Propane and Campfire Woes

As the campsite was set up and the evening progressed, a major issue arose: the propane tank, which had been assumed to be full, was completely empty. With the evening temperatures quickly dropping, the lack of a proper heating source became a significant inconvenience. Attempts to resolve the issue, including a trip to Gunnison and Carbondale, quickly proved fruitless as finding a new propane tank in such a remote area wasn’t going to be easy. Despite this setback, there was no panic—improvised solutions were put to work. Gathering wood from the surrounding area, a small campfire was started, which offered some warmth and a way to cook meals.

While the fire wasn’t as large or as comforting as hoped, it provided enough light and heat to get through the night. The lack of propane served as a reminder that no adventure goes completely according to plan. The night passed without incident, with the adventurers making the best of the situation and adapting to the unforeseen challenge.

Poughkeepsie Gulch: Technical Trails and Steep Climbing

The next day was all about tackling the technical difficulties of Poughkeepsie Gulch, a trail known for its steep climbs and rocky, tight sections. The trail led through rugged terrain, testing the Tundra’s off-road capabilities to the max. The section known as the Poughkeepsie Wall proved to be one of the toughest portions, as it required careful throttle control and a little help from the truck’s rear lockers. In low gear, the Tundra was able to crawl through the difficult terrain, proving just how well it could handle demanding conditions.

It was especially interesting to observe other vehicles trying to navigate the same stretch of trail. Several Jeeps struggled to climb over rocks that the Tundra managed with relative ease, providing a bit of validation for the truck’s setup. The ascent to the top was slow but steady, with the reward of stunning panoramic views stretching across the surrounding peaks. The effort was certainly worth it, offering an unforgettable perspective of the area’s natural beauty.

After conquering Poughkeepsie Gulch, the next destination was Mount Sneffels, a 14,150-foot peak that would be the ultimate challenge.

Mount Sneffels: A 14,000-Foot Hike with Altitude Challenges

Mount Sneffels had been the focal point of the trip, with the goal of summiting one of Colorado’s highest peaks. Standing at 14,150 feet, it is considered one of the more accessible 14ers, though it still presents a significant challenge. The hike started with optimism, trekking upward through rocky terrain and alpine meadows. However, as the first major gully was reached, the effects of the high altitude quickly became apparent.

Even with proper preparation, the thinner air and the physical toll of hiking at high altitudes began to take their toll. With every step, the air felt thinner, and the climb more exhausting. Although the ascent was manageable at first, the higher elevation made the going much slower. As the summit drew closer, the altitude sickness began to set in, forcing a difficult decision. Despite the beautiful surroundings and the obvious proximity to the summit, the hike had to be cut short. The increasing signs of altitude sickness, coupled with worsening weather conditions, made the choice clear: reaching the top was no longer feasible.

The Descent and Post-Hike Recovery

The descent from Mount Sneffels proved challenging in its own right. With sore legs and the realization that the summit was beyond reach, the hike back down was a slow, careful process. Each rocky step became a reminder of how physically demanding high-altitude hikes can be. Finally, when the trailhead was reached, there was a sense of relief in knowing that every effort had been made.

The next phase of recovery took place in Telluride, where a bit of luxury was in order. The contrast between rugged outdoor adventure and the comforts of upscale accommodations, coupled with a scenic gondola ride up the mountain, provided much-needed rest and reflection. It was the perfect way to unwind and take stock of what had been an incredibly challenging, yet rewarding, journey.

Key Takeaways from the Journey

• Off-Road Performance: The Toyota Tundra with 37-inch tires handled the rugged trails with ease. From Engineer Pass to Poughkipsee Gulch, it navigated the toughest sections without hesitation, proving to be a top-tier off-roading vehicle.
• Hiking Realities: While Mount Sneffels is considered an accessible 14er, it’s a reminder that altitude and difficult terrain should never be underestimated. Preparation is essential when tackling such a high mountain, and sometimes knowing when to turn back is just as important as summiting.
• Adaptability Is Key: The propane issue was a perfect example of how off-road adventures rarely go exactly as planned. Being able to adapt—whether it’s cooking without propane or adjusting summit goals based on the toll of altitude—is vital for a successful experience.

This Colorado adventure highlighted the importance of persistence, preparation, and adaptability. Whether conquering rugged trails in the Tundra or tackling high-altitude summits, moments of challenge and triumph made the journey unforgettable.