Gold Camp Rd to Cripple Creek

Total Miles
20.2

Elevation

3,048.01 ft

Duration

2 Hours

Technical Rating

2

Easy

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Gold Camp originally connected the Cheyenne Mountain area to Cripple Creek, but in 1988, Tunnel #3 collapsed and a large section of Gold Camp was closed to vehicles, but left open to hikers and bikers. The section that now connects to Cripple Creek picks back up around the Broadmoor in southeast Colorado Springs, and technically you will be on Old Stage Coach Rd for a bit before connecting back to the real Gold Camp Rd. This is not a challenging road, but it connects Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek, and other great 4x4 roads on the way. It was originally a Ute Indian Trail, and then a rail line. It features big views, especially in the fall when the aspens turn. Most of the 26 miles allow for two-way traffic, but there are many tight curves with low visibility and, especially during the summer peak season, a lot of washed out areas.

Difficulty

It could be a 1 except the road is not maintained regularly.

History

Originally it was a Ute Indian Trail that wound around Pikes Peak. It later became a railroad line with the discovery of gold in Cripple Creek. It had nine tunnels when built, but only tunnel #9 still remains. In the early 1900's another rail line to Cripple Creek opened and in 1939 the federal government took over gold camp. Tunnel #9 has been preserved by a local historical society.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

Kameron Mcwilliams
Mar 23, 2024
4x4
Obstructed
Deep Snow
Where the county maintenance ends, 2-3ft of thick snow past that point, nearly impossible to pass unless you winch every few feet. Would recommend waiting for a bit to go past that point. rest of trail is free to drive on, is quite muddy.
Erick Tako
Feb 25, 2024
4x4
Open
Muddy/Wet
Snow/Ice
The path was mostly clear, however some gusty spots with snow caused several vehicles to become high-centered and needed our assistance with a wench. Recommend high-profile and suitable tires in these spots only.
Shawna Anderson
Feb 10, 2024
4x4
Open
Snow/Ice
Tyler Mcguire
Jan 07, 2024
4x4
Open
hard packed snow, recommend 4wd just in case

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