Trail Overview
At both ends of this trail, there are tight trees and bushes, which make pinstriping very likely. If you get past that, the trail opens up significantly, with views for miles throughout the middle of the trail. This also passes by an old cabin and then, at one other spot, comes near private property, which is labeled and fenced off. This trail does have some slight off-camber areas and some steeper Hill climbs, so four low would be advised in some areas.
Difficulty
The trail is primarily packed dirt and gravel with some loose rocks, shallow ruts, and slight off-camber sections. Several steeper hill climbs may require a low range for better control and traction, while narrow sections at both ends provide limited room for maneuvering or passing.
History
The Ohio City and Gold Creek area developed around mining during Colorado's late-19th-century mining era. Gold discoveries in the region date to the 1860s, but development accelerated after silver discoveries around 1879–1880. The surrounding Gold Brick Mining District contained numerous mines and prospects, including gold and silver workings extending into the mountains surrounding Ohio City. Mining declined around the turn of the century but experienced another period of production during the 1930s and early 1940s. Today, old roads, mine sites, and other remnants scattered throughout the surrounding mountains reflect this historic period of mineral exploration and development.
