Speer Hunter

Speer Hunter offers an exhilarating 17.2-mile journey up the back of South Shale Ridge, making it an ideal adventure for OHVs, SxSs, and stock, high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles seeking scenic lookouts and moderate challenges in western Colorado. Starting at an elevation of approximately 5,634 feet and climbing up to 7,400 feet, the trail begins with an easy ascent before descending toward Dry Fork. Along this route, drivers will navigate moderate terrain consisting primarily of unpaved two-track paths running along sidehills, yielding over 2,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain. The surrounding landscape features expansive vistas near Twin Peaks and Corcoran Peak, providing multiple vantage points that capture the rugged beauty of the Roan Plateau region. While much of the trail is relatively straightforward, offroaders must prepare for a short, narrow shelf road section that requires careful wheel placement and a steady hand. Due to the clay-rich composition of the dirt surface, this route is highly weather-sensitive and should never be attempted when wet, as even a light rain turns the trail dangerously slick and quickly packs tires with mud. When dry, it serves as a fantastic connection to the Dry Fork trail and the loop leading to the dramatic Hunter Canyon Overlook. Trailhead access is located just north of De Beque off County Road 200 near the High Lonesome Ranch, though parking at the staging area is limited.