Trail Overview
Alamosa Conejos Forest Road 250 is a scenic 29-mile overland route following the Conejos River in the Rio Grande National Forest. Beginning off Highway 17, the road heads north along the river, providing access to developed campgrounds and popular trout fishing spots. The first section to the historic mountain community of Platoro is a well-maintained gravel road suitable for most high-clearance vehicles.
Beyond Platoro, the road narrows and climbs steeply to 10,542 feet near Platoro Reservoir, featuring tight switchbacks and sharp drop-offs. This upper segment can become very slick when wet and is impassable during winter due to heavy snow.
Difficulty
Alamosa Conejos road is an easy maintained gravel road all the way to Platoro and the reservoir, after that is becomes more narrow with steeper climbs and some switchbacks with guard rails protecting you from the drop below. When rainy this section in particular can become slippery and dangerous if driving too fast. Winter snows will also make the road more difficult.
History
Platoro derived its name from the Spanish words for silver (*plata*) and gold (*oro*). Established during the mining boom of the late 1800s and early 1900s, the settlement quickly dwindled into a ghost town once the ore was depleted. Today, it operates as a remote, high-altitude resort community serving outdoor recreationists.
Access Description
Parts of the route pass through private property; travelers must respect all clearly marked no-trespassing signs. Fishing along the Conejos River is subject to Colorado state regulations, requiring a valid license and adhering to a strict two-fish bag limit.
