Trail Overview
Leaving the highway, this route follows a very well-maintained gravel road that quickly begins climbing through a series of tight turns along a scenic shelf road. The road offers excellent views throughout the climb, with expansive mountain scenery and several opportunities to look out over the surrounding landscape. In dry conditions, the route is relatively easy and should be suitable for both 2WD and 4WD vehicles, with no particularly challenging obstacles along the way. Near the high point, a scenic overlook provides an excellent elevated view of the lake below. Shortly afterward, the road turns left toward either the campground or a gate that is locked when the campground is closed. Outside the gate, there is a parking area that appears to be popular with mountain bikers accessing trails in the surrounding area.
Difficulty
This is an easy trail suitable for virtually any vehicle in dry conditions. The road is well maintained and consists primarily of gravel for the entire route to the campground. There are no significant obstacles or technical sections, making it a straightforward drive for both 2WD and 4WD vehicles.
History
These early transportation routes often followed Native American and wildlife corridors, natural passes, and the easiest terrain through the mountains. As mining, ranching, and settlement expanded during the late 1800s and early 1900s, these paths developed into wagon roads, freight routes, and livestock trails. The Lamb Trail near Steamboat was used to move sheep toward market, while the Wyoming Trail served ranching and sheep-driving operations between Wyoming and the Yampa Valley. The arrival of the railroad in 1909–1912 greatly expanded access and helped drive the development of mining, ranching, and tourism. The Routt National Forest itself was established as the Park Range Forest Reserve in 1905 and renamed the Routt National Forest in 1908. Many of today’s roads and trails are essentially modern versions of these historic transportation corridors.
Offroad