Trail Overview
Buffalo Peaks Road - 431 is an easy, scenic dirt route perfect for all vehicle types, offering a gentle drive through open meadows, vibrant aspen groves, and a historic burn scar area. Running for nearly three miles, this trail starts right off US Highway 285, climbing from 9,125 feet up to 9,577 feet with minimal technical difficulty, making it highly accessible for stock SUVs, overland rigs, and off-highway vehicles (OHVs). The path provides a peaceful journey through diverse high-country landscapes, starting with expansive grasslands before transitioning into dense stands of aspens that showcase brilliant colors during the autumn months.
The route passes through a section of the forest affected by the 2017 Weston Pass Wildfire, where travelers should exercise caution during high winds due to the risk of falling trees. As a critical wintering area for local wildlife, the trail offers excellent opportunities to spot elk and deer during the colder months, though it is subject to a seasonal closure for wildlife habitat protection from January 1 through June 1. Ground conditions are typically straightforward, however there is no winter maintenance provided along this route.
History
A portion of this route passes through a section of the forest impacted by the 2017 Weston Pass Wildfire, offering a firsthand look at forest regeneration and recovery in the years following the burn.
Access Description
The route is subject to a seasonal closure from January 1 to June 1 to protect critical wintering habitat for elk and deer. There is no winter maintenance on this road, and travelers should be prepared for muddy conditions after rain.
