Roller Coaster

Roller Coaster is a south-to-north connector between Dead Man’s Slide and Lookout Mountain in Cross Bar Ranch. True to its name, it rides a rhythm of short, steep climbs and descents stacked with 14–20-inch ledges and steps. The rock is a mix of limestone and sandstone, offering different traction amounts at different times. Midway through the trail, a quick loop around a hilltop delivers a wide view east across the park. The steepest pitch and biggest ledges sit near the north end just before the Dead Man’s Slide junction, making a northbound run slightly easier since you’ll be descending the largest obstacles.

This is a challenging trail, best suited for modified high-clearance 4x4s. Expect frequent skid contact. Heavy-duty skids, larger tires, and low gearing are recommended, with lockers helpful depending on direction of travel and moisture. Traction drops fast after rain, so air down, spot the bigger steps, and plan your lines before committing.