Lonesome Dove

Total Miles
2.1

Elevation

881.09 ft

Duration

1.25 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Trail Overview

Travel back to the days of the old west on Lonesome Dove. This trail is reminiscent of cowboys driving cattle through the challenge of Palo Duro Canyon from the last 1800's on the JA Ranch. All along this trail are some of the best views of the canyon expanse. There will be moderately difficult climbs with small ledges, descents, and driving along several hundred feet of drop-offs. There will be a blind turn where a spotter to keep you on the trail is encouraged. There is a section that will require a multiple-point turn prior to climbing out of the creek to the completion of the trail.

Photos of Lonesome Dove

Lonesome Dove
Lonesome Dove

Difficulty

This trail has obstacles that will require attention. The first challenge coming from the North is a descent with a hole on the passenger side that will give IFS vehicles a hard time by lifting the driver's side rear in the air. The key is to keep momentum and continue moving through the obstacle. Do not slam on the breaks. The next obstacle is a sharp right turn with a steep drop-off on the driver's side. This is considered a blind turn as it is difficult to see the trail as the driver makes the turn. The steep drop to the canyon floor does add a degree of difficulty. Be aware if the driver turns too sharp there is a small ledge on the passenger side that can make the vehicle lean even further to the driver's side. The best practice is to stop and take a look at it or have a spotter keep the driver on the trail. From there it is a great trail with climbs and descents and lots of amazing views. Towards the end of the trail, there is one turn that is unofficially referred to as Austin Powers. This drop into the creek bed will take multiple point turns to make it safely. There is a ledge that can damage vehicles if the driver turns too soon. A final trip through the creek beds with a left turn heading over a small rise and then a left turn leading up a steep hill will lead you to the end and on to the Back 40. This trail can be run in either direction and running from South to North makes most of those obstacles less daunting. The obstacles described are in order running from North to South.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

Access Description

Lonesome Dove Trail is accessed from Salt Fork Section 2 or from the Back 40 Trail.

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