Top Spots For Off-Roading Near Denver
(credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)The number of top spots for off-roading near Denver is overwhelming. The number of trails you can find and the amount of elevation you will travel are great. With all that Colorado has to offer, you cannot go wrong with any of these nearby locations for off-roading. And why not? Colorado has some of the most picturesque scenery in the United States. Whether you're looking for something easy for the beginner or advanced for the masters of off-roading, these trails are perfect for those looking to enjoy the Colorado summer with the wind in their faces and the pedal to the metal.
Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests
Clear Creek County, CO
www.fs.usda.gov
Kingston Peak in Clear Creek County is a trail that everyone can enjoy because it is close to Denver and offers an amazing timberline view. It is a 9.5 miles long and ranges in elevation from 9,808 to 12,071 feet. It's best to have a high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle to get to the trail as it can get steep and rocky. You will start your off-roading journey near Rollinsville and travel across some great scenic terrain. Get ready to have some fun as you encounter water crossings, dirt and mud, and rock crawling.
Roosevelt National Forest
Near Allenspark, CO
www.fs.usda.gov
A short drive up I-25 north to Highway 66 will take you through Lyons and about 16 miles from the city you'll find the Bright Trailhead. This short but fun trip is only 4 miles, but you will encounter some fantastic scenery and places to spend your day. The elevation the trail follows goes from 8,410 to 8,855, but has some challenges. You will start with an easy climb through the trees and quickly come to the rocky parts. With a most excellent overlook and a backdrop that includes Longs Peak and Mount Meeker, your photos will be stunning.
Manti-La Sal National Forest
599 West Price River Drive
Price, UT 84501
(435) 637-2817
www.recreation.gov
From the moment you leave the pavement in Idaho Springs, you'll enter a fairly steep climb known as Devil's Canyon. Once you go about 0.6 miles, you will start your loop and see a vast array of rocks, mud and hills. The loop will get more exciting as you travel onto the other side of the hill and you encounter the most difficult part of the trail. You will also see some gorgeous areas in which to stop and take pictures. The trail is 4.92 miles and the elevation ranges 9,841 to 10,432 feet. The trail is only open from June 15 – December 1 every year
Related: Guide To Summer Road Trip
Pike National Forest
South Platte Ranger District
19316 Goddard Ranch Court
Morrison, CO 80465
(303) 275-5610
www.rampartrange.org
For the motorcyclists and ATV riders who love to take it off-road, Rampart Range allows enthusiasts to explore the range on the bikes. Located near Colorado Springs, this place has it all for riders: Mud, rocks, fallen trees, water and of course scenery. With more than 100 miles of trails, you will get exciting views of Pikes Peak, the Air Force Academy and a lot of rich history. You might be on a path that was originally a road for a stagecoach or an area that was rich in panning for gold. And if you are looking for more fun, head down when they hold the annual poker runs.
Pike National Forest
Park County, CO
www.summitpost.org
Don't mind driving to a great location? Head to the top of Kenosha Pass and travel the off-road trail of Twin Cone. Located near Bailey and Jefferson, this is a great way to see the entire state of Colorado from the view of the trails. But the scenery is only the beginning, as you will come across some rocky sections that are almost impossible for most vehicles. Your travels will take you through trees and climbing switchbacks before heading deeper into more trees. So if you are the serious off-road enthusiast, take this trip and bring along a lot of energy, great tires and sturdy nerves and you will have a most excellent day as you go from 10,006 to 12,317 feet in a 7.7 mile trail.
Related: Top Summer Backpacking Trips
