Trail Overview

If you're looking for an adventure just outside Ophir, Colorado, the 9.5-mile out-and-back trail is a fantastic option to consider. Known for its challenging terrain, this trail will test your skills and endurance, making it a rewarding experience for those who seek a bit of thrill. While the trail is popular for off-road driving and scenic driving, don't let that deter you if you prefer a quieter experience. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a sense of tranquility and solitude that's often missed during peak hours. The trail is best enjoyed from April through September when the weather conditions are most favorable. During these months, you'll be treated to breathtaking views and a variety of natural landscapes that are particularly vibrant and lush. Whether you're an off-road enthusiast or simply someone who loves the great outdoors, this trail offers something for everyone. Pack your essentials, plan your trip, and get ready to explore the stunning beauty. Happy trails!

Photos of Clear Lake Road

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Difficulty

The trail itself is not too difficult. What will get people is the steep grades and the parts that are shelf roads. There are also switchbacks you will have to maneuver around & could be tricky for a full-sized vehicle or someone new to off-roading. The trail becomes more difficult once past the waterfall & the mine. This stretch to the lake is bumpy and rocky. Airing down is a must to make the ride more comfortable.

Technical Rating

jeff brandt

Nov 10, 2025

Open

it is rougher than last year. This rock will probably keep guys with offset wheels out...

Reid Farmer

Nov 05, 2025

Open

The trail was as expected, great views with a nice payoff at the top. There were a couple tight spots, one rock fall and one mud slide, that I probably wouldn’t be comfortable trying to pass in a bigger truck. I went in my Tacoma and had no issues.

Arin Wayne

Oct 02, 2025

Open

The trail was mostly as described. Going up is honestly pretty easy but that’s because I have good tires and 4x4. Stock clearance would be fine but some decent all terrains would make your life much less stressful. It’s going down that you have to be really cautious of the ledges. I backed up on a couple switch backs to make a safer turn due to the full size Tundra turn radius being a bit larger. Great trail, we camped at the top but it was windy as heck at night.

Anthony Ryken

Aug 30, 2025

Open

Nice trail. Was a few people along the trail and several at the top at the lake. Definitely air down.

jerika fisher

Jun 22, 2025

Open

Open. Snow drift 50 yards from end of trail

David Tovar

Jun 15, 2025

Open

Great trip with minimal traffic. Switchbacks tight, but only backed up on one. 4 Hi on the way up with rear locker and 4 Lo on the way down with no locker. Deep ice kept us from the lake about 0.3 mile.

Chris Humphrey

Jun 08, 2025

Open

You can get up to about half a mile from the lake, but there’s a deep snowdrift blocking the road. I would recommend turning around at the mine, unless you enjoy sketchy 7 point turns on the edge of a drop!

nick t

Jan 29, 2025

Open

The date is wrong, went in July of 2024. the trail was beautiful and not too difficult. There was a couple of off camber areas closer to the top, but any 4x4 with a little clearance can do it. The lake and the views were stunning, and perfect for some trout fishing. Take it slow and enjoy the marmot calls and the abundance of wild flowers. There's a small unmarked trail that goes into the meadow by the lake, but we didn't follow it too far.