Trail Overview
South Quartz Trail is a rocky ATV trail that accesses the South Quartz singletrack. It starts on FS Road 769 at an unmarked entrance and is completely covered in a layer of river rock right away. The rocks range in size from small baby heads to big boulders. It is a single-lane width, ideal for ATVs, with some sections narrower between the trees, as it goes through a scenic forest of aspens and pines. The trail is mostly a gradual ascent from west to east, gaining over 900 feet in elevation over 2.7 miles. It is continuously rocky, with some sections being more rutted. There are few smooth sections in between that are a nice break from all the rock. Halfway through, the trail goes past an old log cabin from Pitkin’s mining history in the late 1800s. There are rocky sections all throughout the 2.7 miles, and it goes through scenic meadows towards the east end. Expect a few steeper sections and short ledges. Note that although designated as a 50” trail on the MVUM, there weren't any signs with width designation, so you may see wider vehicles on this trail unintentionally.
Difficulty
This is an intermediate route due to constant chunky river rock covering the trail, which makes it a slow and bumpy ride. There are a few short rock ledges, ruts, and roots mixed in with the rock. The trail is very gradual and wide, so riders can pick good lines through the rocks. There are a few steeper spots. The rocks are relentless throughout most of the route, so it is more physically demanding.
