Red Buffalo Pass spans a divisive ridge between the South Willow Creek basin (east), and Gore Creek drainage (west). This high vantage provides commanding views across each, and a clear look at Eccles Pass, about 1.5 miles south along the same ridge. Red Buffalo Pass is the most commonly used east-west passage for though-hikers between Silverthorne and Vail, Colorado. Visitors will enjoy good fishing and camping terrain along South Willow Creek, wildflowers, waterfalls and several alpine lakes en route to the pass.

Views to the west from the top of Red Buffalo Pass

Red Buffalo Pass in the distance - across a sea of wildflowers

The trail skirts several alpine ponds on the final approach to the pass

The Gore Creek headwaters form on the west side of Red Buffalo Pass

Marmots live in harem colonies, with breeding that begins shortly after emerging from their 6+ month hibernation

Once above treeline, peak summer flowers carpet alpine slopes and may obscure the trail

Blankets of Indian Paintbrush and Mountain Sunflowers carpet the alpine valley below Eccles Pass and Red Buffalo Pass

Just after breaking treeline, the trail cuts through the alpine tundra before splitting to Red Buffalo Pass

Looking across the wildflower-laden alpine meadows towards the Red Buffalo Pass general area

Marmots are social animals with complex verbal and non-verbal communications

Alpine lakes and ponds under the ridge serve as useful navigation points where the trail fades

The back side of Buffalo Mountain - a looming presence throughout the hike to Red Buffalo Pass

Moist cool marsh areas provide excellent conditions for mushroom growth

View across the alpine valley towards the Eccles Pass area

Wildflowers abound during mid-late summer in the alpine tundra beneath Red Buffalo Pass