Trail Overview
Forest Service Road 139, also known as Keyser Creek Road, offers a scenic and peaceful off-road experience through the heart of Grand County. The trail begins just off County Road 3 near the Horseshoe Campground, where a single-lane bridge crosses Keyser Creek. From the start, FS 139 closely follows the meandering Keyser Creek through a lush forest corridor, with dense evergreens and occasional meadows opening up to mountain views. The road is two lanes wide for most of its length, making it suitable for stock SUVs and larger rigs alike. Numerous pullouts and dispersed campsites line the route, offering plenty of quiet spots to set up camp beside the creek. The trail maintains a gentle grade and is well-maintained, making it a great choice for beginner off-roaders or anyone looking for a scenic detour through the Arapaho National Forest. The trail concludes with a hairpin turn where it veers north and continues toward the town of Fraser. At this junction, Lake Evelyn Road (FS 136) branches off to the east for those looking to explore deeper into the backcountry.
History
The Keyser Creek drainage was historically used by early homesteaders and cattle ranchers in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The broad valley and abundant water made it a natural corridor for summer grazing. While many original structures have decayed or disappeared, remnants of old fencing and cabin foundations can still be spotted if you look carefully in pull-offs and clearings.
