Lenhardy Cutoff FS 376

Trail Overview

Lenhardy Cutoff connects the east side and west side of the Fourmile Area loop. Taking the cutoff allows for a complete loop during season closures. This trail is not as easy as other areas of the Fourmile Area; trailers are limited to small overland trailers and 4WD is required. There are some tight switchbacks and a couple of steep sections with rocks larger than 8 inches. This route also follows a sand/stream wash for a while, which can be very fun to mildly baja around in. The trail runs through lots of pines with epic views of the Collegiate Peaks. A small section follows a beaver pond which can flood part of the trail in spring. There is lots of dispersed camping throughout.

Photos of Lenhardy Cutoff FS 376

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Difficulty

There are rocks larger than 8 inches and a couple of steep declines/inclines with tight switchbacks.

History

This trail was built in 1872 by George Leonhardy, an early Chaffee County Commissioner, from Chubb Park to the farmlands alongside the Arkansas River north of Buena Vista, Colorado. The toll road and mail route bypassed Buena Vista to take a slightly shorter route to Leadville's mines. Stagecoaches carried passengers and mail, and freight wagons hauled mining supplies, as well as hay and vegetables from Leonhardy's own ranch north of Buena Vista.

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