Colorado Off-Road Trails

In the heart of the Red Mountain Mining District, there are mines dotted all over this trail. Some are famous, while others were mere blips in an exercise of futility of those seeking to make a fortune during the silver boom that lasted from 1882 to 1893. The boom commenced right on this trail in 1882, where you can visit the famous Yankee Girl Mine. Yesteryears mining exploits are responsible for all of the roads in this area and U.S. Basin, also known as Red Mountain Pass, packs in the history, but also the amazing views of the San Juan Mountains, which some call the Switzerland of America

Blair Mountain is situated in the White River National Forest, but potentially more known by the region's moniker as the "Flat Tops". Once you find yourself at one of the highest points in this mountainous region of Colorado, you will understand the name. It is comprised of lots of high altitude plateaus, mesas, rolling hills/valleys, and meadows. Its unique geological makeup of being relatively flat at a high altitude allows for an abundance of water retention. There are numerous lakes, ponds, creeks, and marshes along Blair Mountain. Of course with lots of water comes lots of vegetation. This area might be one of the most impressive wildflower displays Colorado has to offer. The actual trail lies on National Forest land that outskirts the Flat Tops Wilderness Area and overlooks the 235,000-acre parcel of land only accessible by foot. In 1919, Arthur Carhart was sent to the area to survey it as a site for summer homes. He was so struck by the landscape that he informed his superiors the land should be set aside, protected, and preserved. He spoke so passionately about the subject that he and the area are credited with sparking the ideas fundamental to the Wilderness Act of 1964. It is for this reason the Flat Tops region is known as “the Cradle of Wilderness”. This track is a technical overlander's dream trail. Its remote location, natural beauty, and plentiful camping/fishing/hiking opportunities will make you want to come back over and over again. Forest Roads jut out in almost every direction, fostering the potential for exploration to be as much or as little as you like. Once you set your wheels on the trail and pitch your tent atop a ridge or by a pristine mountain lake, you may never want to leave.

Cedar Mountain Road near Divide, CO, is a poignant journey through the 138,000-acre burn area of the 2002 Hayman Fire. The land is finally showing signs of life two decades after the devastating event. Skeletal trees punctuate the landscape, their blackened trunks standing as stark reminders of the fire's fury. They now guard lush patches of forest floor and ambitious saplings. Sweeping views of this regrowth, framed by Colorado's azure skies, create an awe-inspiring backdrop for the drive. With the mild off-roading terrain and stunning scenery, this trail is an unforgettable Colorado experience.

Just north of Woodland Park, Flake Road is a bucket-list item for Wheelers in Colorado. It's a well-used trail that has, over time, branched different paths, each providing a unique challenge. The main attraction is "Mini-Moab," known for its Utah-like red rock formations. It's a significant, formidable obstacle that offers varying degrees of difficulty over large boulders and shelves, drawing off-road enthusiasts from all corners of the state. Part of the 15 square mile Rainbow Falls Trail Network in Pike National Forest, Flake Road is a popular spot open all year and can be busy in the summer with people testing the rigs. So, if you're up for a thrilling ride coupled with stunning views, Flake Road is your destination.

Bald Mountain Gulch (FS Road 300) is a 4WD road in the Fourmile area of Colorado, southeast of Johnson Village. It traverses scenic, high-elevation terrain in a northeast to southwest track. It provides the 4x4 enthusiast spectacular rock formations, sandy terrain, and occasional tawny rock and forest-framed views of the Arkansas River valley and the Collegiate Peaks. There are numerous 4WD roads in the vicinity, making Fourmile an ideal destination for a weekend of 4x4 trails, dispersed camping, hiking, and fishing not far from Denver or Colorado Springs. Bald Mountain Gulch is recommended to drive in conjunction with Bald Mountain Loop.

Stretching between Buena Vista and Salida, Aspen Ridge is a drive that feels like pure Colorado magic. The road winds along a high ridge where endless stands of aspen trees fill the landscape with color, sound, and light. In late summer, the groves shimmer with deep green leaves that flutter like rainfall in the breeze. Come autumn, those same trees explode into glowing gold, wrapping the entire ridge in a warm, ethereal light that turns every curve into a postcard moment.

Camping along Aspen Ridge is an experience you’ll never forget. Many of the best spots are tucked right among the aspen groves, where you can wake up to sunlight filtering through golden leaves and the soft sound of the forest coming alive. Others open out to sweeping views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas Valley, offering perfect places to sip coffee as the morning mist lifts.

Whether you’re here for the fall colors, the quiet summer air, or simply to escape the noise of everyday life, Aspen Ridge is where time slows down. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Colorado’s backroads are worth exploring again and again.

Grizzly Lake is a difficult rock crawling trail that takes you over one demanding challenge at the start to steal your attention, and then never gives that attention back till the trail run is over. This trail combines all aspects of rock crawling into less than 3 miles. With ledge climbs, water crossings, shelf roads, off camber leans, and tight squeezes between trees, the trail finally rewards you for your courage by providing epic Rocky Mountain views at its ending point. Bring your camera, bring your fishing rod, but most importantly, bring a well equipped vehicle as the trek to Grizzly Lake is certainly an adventurous one.

Los Pinos-Cebolla Pass is a 40-mile stretch of dirt road that splits through the impressive Powderhorn and La Garita Wilderness areas. It is often used when overlanding across Colorado, and you can see why with its plethora of pines, aspens, open meadows, and running crystal clear mountain water. Offering plenty of dispersed or designated camping, this road is good for a solid night's rest when traveling a long distance. This trail is situated mainly in the Gunnison Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, totaling over three million acres of recreational opportunities. When looking for a good campsite or more miles of dirt, Los Pinos-Cebolla Pass is a good option.

Just a short drive from the city of Colorado Springs lies Old Stage Road, a well-known road that leads you into the heart of the stunning Pike National Forest, eventually connecting to the famous Gold Camp Road. This route is a favorite for its incredible views of Colorado Springs, acting as a doorway to the historic railway trail that winds its way to Cripple Creek and the popular off-road trails along Gold Camp Road like Eagle Rock and Saran Wrap.

Old Stage Road is a perfect trail for those looking to dive into nature and explore the fascinating tales of the local gold rush era. It is easily accessible for a day trip or a spontaneous outdoor adventure. This is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the beauty and history of the area surrounded by the great outdoors.

Part of the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway, Kebler Pass is a fantastic high-mountain pass that travels between Crested Butte and Paonia, over 10,007 feet above sea level. This busy dirt road traverses through one of the largest aspen groves in the country, providing spectacular fall color viewing as the surrounding forests burst into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Kebler Pass is a seasonal road used to access many other recreational opportunities. It should be on everyone's "Do Not Miss" list if you are looking for incredible fall colors or epic mountain views.

Located west of Colorado Highway 119 just south of Rollinsville, Gamble Gulch is in the heart of the historic Gilpin County mining area. Although not as productive and famous as its neighbors, Blackhawk and Central City, Gamble Gulch and Missouri Gulch boasted dozens of mines and supported the towns of Perigo, Gold Dirt, and Wideawake. This rich mining history is evident along the route. In addition, there are several connections into the extensive network of trails around Dakota Hill and Oregon Hill along the way, making this an important point of access to that network. Gamble Gulch provides a glimpse into a bygone era and is a jumping-off point for even more offroad adventure.

Hermosa Park Road provides a scenic shortcut from Durango to Telluride for those who'd rather avoid the smooth, well-traveled highway through Ouray and Silverton. Hermosa, Sig, and Barlow Creeks offer fishing and splashing while providing a fun fording opportunity when the water's up. The remote central portion of the trail has a small marshy lake, abundant wildlife, few other people, and EPIC views. You can access the Colorado Trail from a spur at the crest of Bolam Pass. There is a mining claim, an abandoned mine, and the old Barlow homestead near the trail's western end. Because this is such a remote location, there is no light pollution in the central portion of the trail. Stargazing is unsurpassed on clear nights.

Food and entertainment await you on the trail's eastern end at Purgatory Ski Resort. Many side roads and connectors take you to explore other parts of the San Juan mountains, especially in the east portion of the trail near Purgatory.

Situated in the Arapaho National Forest and close to Denver, Colorado, the Yankee Hill 4X4 network is filled with many four-wheel drive trails. Exploring further into the Yankee Hill area, you find gems, such as the Miners Gulch offroad trail. This trail is more difficult than most in the area, taking you deep into the forest, where the trail turns into a running stream for the last half mile. The trail gets its name from the miners of days gone by, but there are still active mining claims along the way.

Following the North Fork of the South Arkansas River to its origin beneath Pomeroy Mountain, Billings Lake is a stunning offroad trail providing a true Colorado backcountry experience. Rich with abundant camping, scenic views, historical landmarks, and plenty of activities to entertain outdoorsmen of all types, this slow-burning trail passes iconic hiking trails and world-class fishing lakes, culminating at a spectacular valley just beneath the iconic Pride of the West Tunnel. This Toll Tunnel connecting the Billings Lake Valley to the town of Hancock predates rail travel in the area by two years. The ornate stonework with the keystone engraved with "Pride of the West Tunnel 1880" was used as the backdrop by photographers taking pictures for prospective investors.