Trail Overview
This is a fun offroading trail in the summer, spring, and fall, and it reopens after hunting season in the winter. It does get a significant amount of snow during the winter months. In the spring, there is one water crossing that can be up to three feet deep during the spring melt/runoff season. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty. There are some rocky sections, a couple of steep climbs, and sharp turns, but no major drop-offs. However, there are some side hills. Be prepared for fallen trees and bring a chainsaw, shovel, and high-lift jack. A winch is recommended if you're traveling alone. I have driven this trail in all four seasons from both sides. In early winter, it's best to drive from the top down. I would not recommend driving from the bottom up in the winter due to some side hills and leans that can be a bit uncomfortable. There is a cabin near Leadville that is worth exploring around, along with some old remains of the Leadville mine. Please be cautious when exploring the Leadville mine and stay away from the mine shafts. It's important to note that you will be crossing the Continental Divide Trail system, which offers a great opportunity for hiking into the backcountry. This off-roading trail provides access to it. The trail is closed from October 15 to December 1 for wildlife protection and during the hunting season. Remember to close the cattle gate if the gate was previously closed. The general rule is to leave the gates as you found them.
Difficulty
The water crossing can be deep in the spring. There are a couple of rocks in the middle of the trail and some ledges to climb up. The hill from the cabin can be slick early winter & in the spring. Rating this at 5 due to the potential of water crossings in the spring and slippery side hills in the early winter & spring. In the summer, this is a 4.
