Coulter Mesa

Climbing 17 miles into the White River National Forest, Coulter Mesa begins just north of Rifle Falls State Park and follows East Rifle Creek through a narrow canyon within Rifle Mountain Park. In this lower section, the road is also named Little Box Canyon Road, winding beneath towering limestone walls that have made the park one of the premier sport climbing destinations in North America. Visitors from around the globe come here for the rock climbing, with more than 250 bolted routes and campsites tucked along the creek. Stopping in the park requires a fee, but there is no charge for driving straight through to the National Forest. Once through the park and up into the pines, the route opens into free camping, sprawling views, and a more remote backcountry feel. Inside the National Forest, the trail is not maintained, with ruts, tight switchbacks, and long dirt climbs. Coulter Mesa is ideal for stock high-clearance 4x4s equipped with durable tires.