Back Way to North Sand Hills

Total Miles
23.8

Elevation

3,020.92 ft

Duration

3.5 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Avoid the paved road to Walden on this fun back way to North Sand Hills. There are camping sites along the trail, and a good number of side roads to play on. The Old Roach Area is part of the Roosevelt National Forest and is open year-round.

Photos of Back Way to North Sand Hills

Back Way to North Sand Hills
Back Way to North Sand Hills

Difficulty

Moderate. Most of this route is easy, but F.S. 200 can become a quagmire when wet. The final 3-mile descent to the dunes is narrow, rocky and rough in places. Sandy roads at the bottom near the creek are prone to washouts and difficult conditions are possible here. Carry a tree saw or chain saw as fallen trees are everywhere and sometimes block the trail.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Matt H
Aug 10, 2024
2022 Ford Ranger
Open
Muddy/Wet
Erick Topken
Jun 29, 2024
4x4
Open
Dusty
Most of the trail is a well groomed road, it gets more difficult and rougher as you go. I wouldn’t call it a “4” until you make the turn on to Little Government Creek Rd. From there on its narrow steep and rocky. Lots of side by sides ATVs and dirt bikes.
Zachery Paul
Jun 22, 2024
2018 RAM 1500
Open
Kevin Starks
Jun 09, 2024
SxS
Open
Normal
Dusty
Muddy/Wet
Came in from Hohnholts Lake TH, tail was clear from East to West.

Access Description

From Fort Collins: Follow Highway 14 west about 51 miles and turn right on Laramie River Road, C.R.103. Continue north 28 miles to sign for Hohnholz Lake on left. From Red Feather Lakes: Take Deadman Road (Trail #3 described next), west 24 miles and turn left on C.R 80C. You can see Laramie River Road in the valley below. Once on Laramie River Road, go north 6.2 miles to sign for Hohnholz Lake on left.

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