I have no plans for Telluride or Aspen even close to the near future by myself, or anything else really until I take a mountain course and get some more time.

The only route I was considering was BJC>PUB>Alamosa via LaVeta Pass. Looked like I could fly over the pass @ 11,500, which would put me 2,000' above the road for about 5 minutes before the terrain drops back down again.

Any opinions on that one?

Taking the mountain flying course is definitely a good idea. I fly out of Centennial and AOPA and tons of other organizations are here doing mountain courses all the time. I know Aspen flying club has a pretty good intro to mountain flying class. I also agree with the baby steps comment, mountain flying is something that should be taken very seriously.

That route sounds solid I would look around and try and find a pilot at metro that has some good experience in the mountains before you go. Probably an Instructor.

Either way KPUB has awesome burgers at the Spitfire Grill :)

Lots of good advice! What a/c are you flying? It may be a good idea to make sure your mountain instructor has time in type.

I'm not sure 100 hours is magical. If you get the training, understand how it affects your particular a/c, and are comfortable, you should be good to go.

Have fun and be safe.

One thought, and it may be handled in the mountain course, take your plane to 9K (i.e. TEX elevation) and simulate a takeoff to see how your plane performs.