Trail Overview
Cave Creek Road (USFS Road 217) is a short but engaging 0.9-mile climb in the Roosevelt National Forest, perfect for moderately experienced offroaders seeking a quick challenge with scenic overlooks. Starting from the Peak to Peak Highway near Raymond, the route wastes no time, immediately throwing drivers onto a steep incline with uneven dirt surfaces and deep ruts. With an elevation gain of nearly 400 feet, rising from 8,057 feet to 8,448 feet, this trail serves as a fun connector up to the popular Bunce School Road network. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, side-by-sides (SxSs), and ATVs are ideal for navigating the rugged terrain, while stock crossovers and sedans should avoid this route due to the deep ruts and traction requirements.
Along the ascent, drivers will find several pull-offs suitable for dispersed camping, vehicle turnarounds, or pausing to take in views of the surrounding mountains and nearby features like The Ironclads. The trail surface consists primarily of dirt, loose rock, and deep ruts that will test a vehicle's articulation and ground clearance. While the trail can be relatively clear of snow by mid-April, late-season storms can keep conditions slick and muddy, making early summer through autumn the most reliable times to visit. Because it feeds directly into the larger Bunce School Road area, Cave Creek Road makes an excellent starting point or addition to a longer day of exploring northern Colorado's historical mining and forest service roads.
