Trail Overview
The Switzerland Trail is a historic, scenic offroad route perfect for scenic drivers and intermediate offroaders looking for a rugged, high-country drive with stunning alpine views. Spanning approximately 14 miles through the Boulder County mountains, this unpaved route follows a historic narrow-gauge railroad bed, offering a rough and rocky surface with a steady, mild grade. Starting off State Highway 72 just north of Nederland, the trail climbs through dense pine forests and open meadows, reaching a maximum elevation of 9,078 feet. While there are no massive obstacles, drivers will encounter constant ruts, potholes, washouts, and loose rock that make for a bumpy ride and require a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle or capable SxSs.
As the route progresses, it transitions into a shelf road with banked curves and offset potholes that will require novice drivers to take it slow and steady. This section provides dramatic drop-offs and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, but requires focused navigation and patience, particularly when passing oncoming traffic on the narrow shelf sections. Along the way, historical remnants of the late 19th-century railroad can still be spotted, adding a touch of history to this classic Colorado trail. The route exhibits a net elevation loss of about 464 feet, starting near 7,718 feet, and serves as a popular multi-use recreational corridor that is shared with hikers, mountain bikers, and campers, so keeping a sharp eye out for others is essential.
Difficulty
This trail has no major obstacles, but the shelf road will give novice drivers pause. The road is rocky and rough throughout, with ruts, off-camber sections caused by partial washouts, erosion, and exposed rock. Caution and patience are urged.
History
The Switzerland Trail follows portions of the historic Switzerland Trail of America, a narrow-gauge railroad constructed in the late 19th century to service the mining communities in the region, including towns like Ward and Jamestown. Today, remnants of the old rail bed and related structures can still be seen along the route, and the trail serves as a recreational corridor for offroad enthusiasts, hikers, and mountain bikers exploring the high-country forests of Boulder and Gilpin counties.
