Trail Overview
Lincoln Creek Road is a scenic, 11.5-mile off-road route near Aspen, Colorado, ideal for viewing historic mining remnants. Running alongside Lincoln Creek, this route climbs through a lush mountain valley from an elevation of 9,625 feet up to a breathtaking 11,918 feet. The northern portion of the trail is relatively easy, accommodating a wider range of high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles. However, as the trail winds past Grizzly Reservoir, the terrain shifts, narrowing significantly and presenting a series of increasingly rocky obstacles that demand careful wheel placement and moderate off-road driving skills.
The final 0.7-mile stretch leading up to the historic Ruby Mine and Frenchman's Cabin is the most demanding, featuring rocky grades that test vehicle traction and ground clearance. Along the way, visitors can utilize 24 designated dispersed campsites nestled in the wilderness, making this an excellent multi-day destination. The trail is open seasonally from May 23 to September 15 for street-legal, licensed vehicles only and the route is shared with hikers and mountain bikers. Frenchman's Cabin, built in 1894, marks the entrance to the historic Lincoln Mining District, where silver mining thrived over a century ago.
Difficulty
Moderate. The northern portion of this trail is easy. South of Grizzly Reservoir, the trail narrows and gets a bit rockier. The last 0.7 mile before Ruby Mine is rocky, narrow and steep.
History
The route enters the historic Lincoln Mining District, where silver mining began in the 1880s. Key historic features include Frenchman's Cabin, built in 1894, and the remains of the Ruby Mine. Early operations were hindered because ore had to be hauled over mountain passes to Leadville. A revival occurred in 1900 when the Ruby Mines and Development Company took over operations, constructing a 50-ton concentrating mill and shipping ore directly to nearby Aspen, which improved profitability. Mining operations in the area eventually shut down in 1912.
Access Description
The trail is open seasonally from May 23 through September 15. Only street-legal, licensed vehicles are permitted. Dispersed camping is restricted to 24 designated sites along the route. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are required to traverse the rougher southern sections. The trail is shared with hikers and mountain bikers, who have the right of way.
