Trail Overview
This route begins off East Brush Creek Road and follows a wide, well-maintained Forest Service road where two vehicles can easily pass, at least as far as the historic town of Fulford. During the first few miles, travelers will find several excellent dispersed campsites, with additional camping opportunities located near the intersection with FS 435. Beyond this junction, the road becomes slightly narrower and rockier, though it remains accessible to most high-clearance vehicles. Approximately two miles before the end of the route, a parking area provides access to nearby 10th Mountain Division huts, which are reached by an easy quarter-mile hike. About a mile farther along, the road passes the trailhead for scenic New York Lake, a popular destination for hikers and anglers. The route eventually ends at an unassuming turnaround marked by a sign indicating the boundary of the 10th Mountain Division hut system, signaling the end of this peaceful and scenic mountain drive.
Difficulty
Although this route is not particularly difficult, it does feature several deep mud holes and rocky sections that require careful tire placement to avoid sidewall damage. Due to the remote nature of the area, travelers should be equipped with basic recovery gear and the ability to self-recover, or ideally be traveling with another vehicle. In dry conditions, many drivers may never need to engage 4WD to complete the trail, but having that capability available is strongly recommended should conditions change or an obstacle become more challenging than expected. If you are only going as far as Fulford, any vehicle will suffice.
History
The 10th Mountain Division was established during World War II as a specialized U.S. Army unit trained in alpine and winter warfare. Soldiers trained extensively in the mountains of Colorado, learning skiing, mountaineering, and cold-weather survival skills before deploying to the Italian Alps, where they played a crucial role in several successful campaigns. After the war, many veterans of the 10th Mountain Division returned to Colorado and became pioneers of the American ski industry, helping establish and develop numerous ski resorts, including those in the Vail Valley. The 10th Mountain Division Hut System was later created to honor their legacy, providing a network of backcountry huts connected by trails throughout the Colorado Rockies. Today, these cabins offer outdoor enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience the same rugged mountain landscapes that helped shape one of the most celebrated mountain fighting units in U.S. military history.
