Off-Road Trails: Colorado

Most people know Colorado for the Rocky Mountains, but it's not until you actually venture to the state that you see the true expansiveness of this mountain range. East of Denver, the Rocky Mountains plaster the horizon with an incredible, awe-inspiring view. It is without a doubt one of the best places in the United States for off-road lovers.

Colorado trails extend for miles and miles in the mountains and the state makes for a truly memorable off-road experience. We'll see you on the trail!

Front Range Adventure Rentals

When you hit the front range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, you will find some very interesting terrain. You can go from the wide-open range with open space as far as you can see and quickly move into rugged mountains, deep forest lands, and twisting, turning roads and trails. Sounds like a pretty sweet place to ride, doesn’t it? Front Range Adventure Rentals can set you up. Being a Destination Yamaha location, they specialize in Yamaha Kodiak and Grizzly rentals, as well as Yamaha dirt bikes, dual sports, adventure bikes, and motorcycles - all that will let you take full advantage of the various terrain and road ways. This outfitter is located just west of Denver in Lakewood, Colorado, and is a great place to jump off to a sweet ride.

• Distance Hundreds of Miles
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Silverton or Lake City, Colo.

Alpine Loop Trail System

One of the most scenic trails in the entire country has to the Alpine Loop Trail System. You may have seen the sights of Colorado before - massive tree lines, incredible mountain peaks, and logging roads that make for the perfect off-road trails. The Alpine Look seemingly has it all. Starting from the trailhead near Silverton, you can do on seemingly endless roads and trails. Careful, though, the roads get busy in the summertime. Accommodations can be found in Silverton (a main kickoff point for the trail), or in cities like Lake City. While there is no shortage of RV and hotel accommodations, be sure to book early in the year as the summer season (the only time to ride at this high elevation) books up fast. Keep in mind the high altitude is a strain on your body and machine here, but it offers some of the most scenic and awe-inspiring backcountry in the world! This is an experience you will want to share with family and friends.

• Size 10,000+ Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Grand Junction, Colo.

Grand Valley OHV Area

Located near the Grand Junction area, Grand Valley OHV has a wide variety of terrain that is suited to many different riding styles. In this area, there is primitive camping allowed for all of you who like to "rough it" for the night. It's really not "roughing it" though, as this place offers so much fun. Nearby Grand Junction has all of the supplies you could need to help make this trip fun and memorable for the entire family.

• Size 6,000 Acres
• Skill Level All
• Trailhead Southern - French Gulch; Northern - Tiger Road

Golden Horseshoe Trail System

6,000 acres of mountain trails characterize this trail system, which can accommodate all kinds of different rigs. Golden Horseshoe is characterized by phenomenal Rocky Mountain backdrops, and the trail system has two staging areas (North - Tiger Road, South - French Gulch). If you are looking to camp, primitive camping is available at both staging areas.

• Size 300+ Acres
• Skill Level Experienced
• Trailhead Cowdrey, Colo.

North Sand Hills Special Management Recreational Area

You've probably heard of the Great Sand Dunes National Monument in Colorado, which is closed to motor vehicles. But did you know that there are sand dunes in Colorado open to off-road recreation? North Sand Hills is located in the northern part of the state and includes open riding for sand aficionados everywhere. The nearby town of Walden has supplies, but come prepared as this area is definitely off the beaten path. Plus, there are 13 individual campsites in a small campground, along with primitive campsites scattered.

• Distance 15 miles
• Skill Level For the most advanced only
• Trailhead North of Crested Butte

Schofield Pass

For those of you searching for the toughest off-road trail in America, here you go. Schofield Pass is rarely open due to snow conditions, but for those few weeks it is, get ready for the most treacherous trail out there. This trail goes between Marble and Crested Buttes and is also known by other names - “S.O.B.” Trail and a few less desirable names. The views are amazing, and that is the main reward for attempting this trail. The trail is only open in late summer, and should not be attempted alone, or by anyone not on top of their game. The trail is mostly rock and loose sandy terrain that can become a quagmire of mud when wet.