Four-wheeling in Central Colorado is about high mountain passes, historic mining sites, scenic backcountry lakes, and fantastic vistas. No mud bogs or slow going rock crawling in this region of pine and aspen forests, 14,000-foot mountains, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear streams. To visit Colorado for "wheeling" is to experience world class trail riding. Many of the trails will cover quite some mileage before hitting a difficult obstacle, and when the climb takes you above the tree line the views are absolutely fabulous.

One of the key elements in the Rockies is the altitudes, and the climbs to get there. Horsepower, low gearing, and a 'good working order' on your trail rig will go a long way. Many of the best riding areas are the summer range for deer, elk, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Occasionally mountain lion and black bear are spotted in the backcountry. The mountain wilderness also includes many abandoned mountain homesteads and historic ghost towns, remnants of the original Colorado settlers, who came to the region to mine gold and silver. Some of the routes where first used by miners to reach their mining camps. Others follow the routes of old narrow gauge railroad right-of-ways. For those that don't have a four-wheel rig, local vendors offer jeep tours into some of the more popular areas. Or you can rent a jeep or other four-wheel drive vehicle. 

Four-Wheeling Trails

General Backcountry Safety--This training program was prepared by Charley Shimanski of the Mountain Rescue Association Education Committee. It is an introductory course in backcountry safety for those with little or no experience in mountainous and backcountry terrain.

(All backcountry recreationist should read this. It could save your life in an emergency.)

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Jeep Tours

Guided jeep tours are an excellent way to visit the backcountry of Colorado. The region has abandoned ghost towns, mining camps, and historic mountain homesteads that can only be reached by four-wheel drive or hiking. Experienced local tour guides take you to the best locations to view wildlife; and provide information on the geology, history, and fascinating lore of the Central Colorado Rockies. 

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Rentals

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