Trail Overview

This scenic trail descends into the valley through open mountain terrain with expansive views of surrounding 14,000-foot peaks. The narrow route consists mostly of dirt and rocks with 5–6-inch ruts and limited room for vehicles to pass. At 2.5 miles, a campsite on the left can accommodate up to two vehicles and offers excellent valley views. An incredible campsite at the end provides 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valley. The ground is uneven, but rocks are available to help level your vehicle.

Photos of Johnson Basin Road

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Difficulty

This trail is rated Level 2 because it is relatively easy with moderate ruts and rocky terrain, while the narrow route requires some caution when encountering other vehicles.

History

The Uncompahgre National Forest was established in 1905 and has a long history tied to mining, logging, ranching, and early settlement in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. The region was especially shaped by the late-1800s mining boom, with historic towns, mines, and roads still found throughout the forest today.

Technical Rating