Trail Overview
Uranium is a scenic 3.2-mile loop trail on BLM land near the Dolores River in southwestern Colorado, offering offroaders a moderate adventure past historic mining ruins with stunning canyon views. Ideal for high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs, this route starts out relatively easy but increases in difficulty as it climbs from 7,170 feet to a maximum elevation of 7,500 feet. The trail surface consists primarily of loose dirt and mud, which can become slick and challenging during wet weather. Along the route, drivers will navigate tight switchbacks, minor rock steps, and loose stone sections, requiring careful tire placement to negotiate the technical rating of 4.
The main draw of this loop is the history scattered along the trail, where old uranium mines still feature remnants of historic mining equipment and weathered wooden structures. Navigating this route provides access to numerous side spurs and adjacent trails that climb to ridge lines with expansive views of the surrounding red rock country. Located on Bureau of Land Management land, this area is best run from late spring through autumn when dry conditions prevail. Visitors should ensure they have sufficient fuel, water, and recovery gear, as the remote location offers no services but links into a vast network of additional off-road opportunities.
Difficulty
Trail is mostly loose dirt or mud, but has tight switchbacks, and depending on which direction you approach, a few steps and loose rocks.
History
The route passes by several abandoned mid-century uranium mines. These historical sites still contain remnants of mining equipment and old wooden structures dating back to the region's uranium mining boom.
Access Description
Located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. No entry fees or permits are required for access, but vehicles must have appropriate state-registered off-highway vehicle (OHV) decals or be street-legal. The route is highly sensitive to wet weather, and travel is discouraged when the clay and dirt surface is wet to prevent resource damage.
