ATV Trails In Colorado – An Epic Guide To Adventure

ATV Trails Colorado – An Epic Guide To Adventure

ATV Trails Colorado are a dream come true for adventure junkies out there.

We are talking about miles and miles of off-roading trails surrounded by natural sceneries like the surreal Rocky mountains, rugged terrains, cooling river canyons, and teeming wildlife. 

It is simply a place where adventure and beauty collide!

In this article, WWB Writer, Farihah will share with you the best ATV Trails Colorado.  She will also cover both private ATV parks and public offroading trails in the state. 

Because who knows, today you might want to go ride on an ATV trail, tomorrow you might change your mind and want to try out an ATV park instead!

Whether you are a beginner, a seasoned off-roader, there’s bound to be an ATV destination in Colorado that will suit your abilities and get your adrenaline pumped up!

Here’s a summary of what the article will be covering:

• Black Bear Pass, Telluride
• Red Cone and Webster Pass, Montezuma
• Tellurium Creek, Taylor Park
• Schofield Pass, Crested Butte
• Alpine Loop, Ouray
• Kelly Flats
• Grand Mesa Trails
• Yankee Boy Basin, Ouray
• Flat Tops – Wagon Wheel OHV Trail System, Meeker
• Hardscrabble Special Recreation Management Area
• Colorado State Forest State Park, North Park
• Rollins Pass East
• Rampart Range Recreation Area, Colorado Springs
• Sevenmile Creek OHV Route, Red Feather Lakes
• Yankee Hill OHV Road, Central City
• RAM Off-Road Park

DISCLOSURE

Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

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What Are The Best ATV Trails Colorado?

1.   Black Bear Pass, Telluride

Black Bear Pass is one of the Best ATV Trails Colorado has to offer for offroaders, simply because it is located in the famed Rocky Mountains.

Black Bear Pass, Telluride

This trail is very intense. At a high elevation of 12,840 ft above sea level, the summit showcases a breathtaking panorama of the mountains. This video will show you what the trail looks like.

But the real adventure begins when it’s time to go downhill (one-way only) to Telluride, once a Victorian mining town. 

Your vehicle will need to descend steep, rocky roads, passing by narrow and dangerous switchbacks. Through the ride, you’ll get to see remnants of the historic mines up-close, and get misted by the tallest waterfall in Colorado, the Bridal Veil Falls.

The Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado

Tip: You cannot drive unlicensed Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) on the streets of Telluride. Arrange a trailer shuttle earlier at the parking area at the bottom of Black Bear Road.

• Difficulty level: 5/5
• Distance: 11.1 miles two-way
• Duration: 2-3hours
• Elevation gain: 562m
• Vehicles Allowed: High clearance, short wheelbase, 4×4 vehicles
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: July. Weather dependent too. 
• Contact: 970-327-4261, Norwood Ranger District.
• How to get here: From Ouray, drive 30 minutes down south on US 550 (Million Dollar Highway), until you reach the trailhead on the right side. It is the famous ‘Black Bear Pass 4 Wheel‘ sign along US 55, which will be on the right side.
• Trail map: Black Bear Pass

2.   Red Cone and Webster Pass, Montezuma

Wish to experience technical alpine offroad driving? Then consider this advanced trail located in Montezuma.

Red Cone & Webster Pass is a difficult ATV trail. 

You will travel uphill, traversing mountain terrain with rocky climbs, and then descend from Red Cone to the top of Webster Pass.

Steep drop-offs, rocky climbs, loose rocks, and boxed potholes are normal encounters here. Only ride if your riding skill is absolutely advanced. Click here to watch the video of this trail.

Tips:

• Weather changes quickly, dress appropriately!
• Some edges drop over 1000 ft, so beware and be alert because you don’t want to slip sideways down the mountain!

• Difficulty level: 5/5
• Distance: 20miles (loop)
• Duration: 2-3hours
• Elevation: 12,801 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: High clearance, 4×4 vehicles, ATV, motorcycle, biking
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Contact: (970) 468-5400, Dillon Ranger District Office
• Open season: Summer (late-August and early September) for snow-free experience
• How to get here: Access Red Cone Pass through steep, gravel road from Webster Pass (via north) or Handcart Gulch Road (via south).
• Trail Map: Red Cone and Webster Pass

3. Tellurium Creek, Taylor Park

Taylor Park usually comes to mind when one talks about the dream off-roading location in Colorado. While the park is huge and has various exciting ATV trails, Tellurium Creek is its most famous one.

Tellurium Creek, Taylor Park

The highlight of this trail is the ascension from the lower ground towards the higher elevation section. 

The view transitions from open forest land of high trees accompanied by beautiful meadows, and then gradually opening up to a 360-degree panoramic sight as you circle a gorgeous valley.

For the most part, the trail is wide, which makes it an easy one to navigate. But stick on marked routes only because there are some steep rocky areas with narrow switchbacks and loose rocks.

This video will show you exactly what to expect here.

Tips:

• Outdoor opportunities like hiking and camping are available at Collegiate Peaks Wilderness (19.3 miles drive away from Tellurium Creek)
• Understand Motor Vehicle Use Map in Gunnison National Forest before riding.

• Difficulty level: 4/5
• Distance: 12.4 miles
• Duration: 2-3hours
• Elevation: 12,270 feet
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike.
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Summer-Fall. 
• Contact: (970) 641-0471, Gunnison N.F. Gunnison R.D.
• How to get here: Head up north for 13.5 miles via Co Rd 765 and Co Rd 742 from Taylor Park Trading Post. Turn right onto Co Rd 742F to a visibly signed Tellurium Creek Road 584 on right, and continue till its trailhead.
• Trail map: Tellurium Creek

4.  Schofield Pass, Crested Butte

This one’s a tough one to include in the list, because…

It is absolutely dangerous and hardcore, with a reputation for being known as one of the deadliest mountain passes in Colorado. The route is unpredictable, rocky, narrow with few sharp drop-offs. Some automobile mishaps have occurred.

Despite that, this pass has often been traveled safely by offroaders without incident. So only come here if you are very skilled, and had a lot of ATV experiences in the past.

Schofield Pass, Crested Butt

Another reason why Schofield Pass deserves to be on this list is because of its extremely beautiful views. Located at an altitude of 10,707 ft, you get the most scenic views of the area’s wilderness. 

Think soaring mountain peaks of Elk Range in a vast, isolated area of pines and aspen.

Alternatively, you will also get to witness a series of waterfalls flowing into a deep bluish-green pool at ‘The Devil’s Punchbowl’.

Tip: Get a guided ATV tour ($50) for a safe ATV experience

• Difficulty level: 5/5
• Distance: 6 miles one way
• Duration: 2-4 hours
• Elevation gain: 1840 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Late July-Fall
• Contact: (970) 963-2266, Sopris Ranger District

• How to get here: Drive 4.1 miles up north via Co Rd 811 from Crested Butte. Turn right onto Co Rd 734 and continue for 3.6 miles, then turn right onto Co Rd 734 to reach the pass trailhead.
• Trail Map: Schofield Pass

5. Alpine Loop, Ouray

With a history of being one of the best backcountry byway systems in the USA, Alpine Loop is undoubtedly one of the best places to ATV in Colorado.

But originally, it was used as a path by Native Americans to cross the region, then became a path to access mines in the late 1800s.

This trail connects Silverton, Lake City, and Ouray, reaching up to 12,800 feet, traversing through the Rocky Mountains over Cinnamon Pass and Engineer Pass. 

The loop has the perfect recipe for an amazing ATV ride: abandoned mines, ghost towns, natural flora wonders, and glimpses of wildlife are just the ordinary views throughout. 

Alpine Loop, Ouray

A tour ($390) is available with Rock Pirates.

Tips: Electronic and wireless devices do not work on most parts of Alpine Loop. Carry a hard copy of the map for your trip.

• Difficulty level: 2/5
• Distance: 65 miles loop
• Duration: 5-7 hours
• Elevation: 12,800 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, High clearance 4×4, SxS, Dirt Bike
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Mid Summer – September
• Contact: 970-642-4940, Gunnison Field Office 210 West Spencer Avenue Gunnison, CO 81230

• How to get here: From Ouray, access the Alpine Loop on County Road 18 via a 4.2 miles drive south on US-550.
• Trail Map: Alpine Loop

6. Kelly Flats

You’ve likely heard of Kelly Flats ‘Heart Attack Hill’. This main climb at about half a mile in gives Kelly Flats its reputation as a premier and hardcore ATV trail in Northern Colorado.

Regardless, Kelly Flats is only challenging in the beginning! Where the trail is partly rocky and gets steep to climb out of Cache La Poudre River Valley, but can be a blast as you’ll then get a stunning up top view of Mummy range— a mountain range of 13,000 ft elevation in the Rocky Mountains. 

After that, it gets relatively easy to navigate, as the route passes through a residential area. 

Ample dispersed camping opportunities along the road if you decide to stay the night.

Kelly Flats, ATV Trails Colorado

Tips:

• There are some mud holes in the last section of the trail and can be large especially after rain. Navigate around the mud holes to be safe.
• The Chutes (with visible signposts) section is also challenging to traverse. Be extra careful because body damage frequently occurs at this part.

ATV Trails Colorado:

• Difficulty level: 5/5
• Distance: 10.5 miles 
• Duration: 2-4 hours
• Elevation gain: 2,887 ft 
• High point: 8,650 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Summer-Fall
• Contact: (970) 295-6700, Roosevelt National Forest, Canyon Lakes Ranger District

• How to get here: From Rustic, head 5.4 miles east on CO-14 and Poudre Canyon Rd. Kelly Flats’ trailhead is on the left (north) side of the road.
• Map:  Kelly Flats Route

7. Grand Mesa Trails

A trip to Colorado’s Western Slope is incomplete without paying a visit to its biggest attraction, Grand Mesa, the largest Flat-Topped Mountain in the World with 300 pristine lakes.

Grand Mesa National Forest provides about 150 miles of ATV trail network on the Grand Mesa, branching out to Grand Junction nearby, and Fruita’s desert trails (must go if you love dinosaurs and history). 

Together, they are known as Grand Valley Open OHV Area, an open landscape with little shade.

But in Grand Mesa Trails, you will pass by a landscape of water crossings, leisurely thick meadows, countless lakes, abundant fir, and spruce trees, plus wildflowers! They are as beautiful as they can get!

Grand Mesa Trails, Best ATV Trails Colorado

Advanced trails with rocky steep climbs and deep mud holes are mostly scattered south of Mesa town.

Tip: You can also get the opportunity to do some fishing in any of the 300 lakes of Grand Mesa, or enjoy water sports like kayak and stand-up paddleboards. Several lakes are open to access for ATV vehicles. Contact the ranger district to know which.

Tour the scenic Grand Mesa with Altitude Outdoor Adventures ($150-$200) for an enjoyable trip. You can rent ATVs and UTVs from them as well.

• Difficulty level: All levels are available
• Distance: 150 miles multi-use trail system
• Elevation: 9,000 to 10,000 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, UTV, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: All year round
• Contact: (970) 874-660, Grand Mesa National Forest 2250 Highway 50 Delta, CO 81416 

• How to get here: From Cedaredge, head north on CO-65 for 15.8 miles. Then turn right onto Baron Lake Dr, onto Forest Rd 1211A. The Grand Mesa visitor center is on the right. 
• Map: Grand Mesa / Motorised Trail Map

8. Yankee Boy Basin, Ouray

America has its own Switzerland! And that is Ouray, a mountain town southwest of Colorado.

Yankee Boy Basin lets you enjoy the stunning alpine scenery of San Juan mountains, remnants of mining cabins, waterfalls, and wildflowers along the backcountry roads in Ouray.

Yankee Boy Basin, Ouray

The drive up is fairly easy, through a dirt road.

But as you continue the ride climbing up towards the final part of the route, canyons with waterfalls flowing on the side of the route, the trail becomes more technical, rocky, and narrow with steep drop-offs. 

Passing by other vehicles at the higher sections can be impossible, so be aware of that.

Twin Falls is the star of this route and is a favorite stop for four-wheel drive enthusiasts and the most photographed attraction in the area.

Because the area is always occupied with visitors, camping is restricted to designated areas like Amphitheater Campground ($26/night; reservations required), and Thistledown Campground (no reservations needed).

Half-day guided ($59.75) tour available.

Tips:

• This trail is best experienced when the wildflowers are in full bloom from mid-July till August. You can see Larkspur, Wild Iris, Chiming Bluebells, Dwarf Sunflowers, and all kinds of colorful, rare wildflowers! you may even see a Big Horn Sheep if you’re lucky!
• You will encounter a good amount of traffic be it people hiking or cars passing through, at the first section up the trail, especially on the weekends.

• Difficulty level: 3/5
• Distance: 9 miles
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Elevation: 12,400 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Summer – Fall
• Contact: (970) 240-5300, Uncompahgre National Forest, Ouray Ranger District 
• How to get here: Head south from Ouray on US 550 for 0.6 miles. Turn right onto Camp Bird Road and continue for 2.6 miles. Look for the sign: Camp Bird Mine, Yankee Boy Basin, and Box Canyon Falls. This is the trailhead.
• Trail Map: Yankee Boy Basin

9. Flat Tops – Wagon Wheel OHV Trail System, Meeker 

With over 250 miles of designated riding trails, The Wagon Wheel Trail system in Meeker is a playground for offroaders.

But if we have to recommend one trail, choose Flat Tops.

This trail packs a punch. From extreme technical challenges, small streams that can be forded, scenic overlooks of lakes, vistas, and wildflowers—everything an advanced offroader possibly looks forward to the most. 

This video shows just how beautiful Flat Tops is.

Tips:

• Plenty of outdoor recreation activities hunting, camping, fishing at Kenny Reservoir are available here too. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, or horses that may travel into the route!
• The best thing about Meeker is that it is an ATV-friendly town, allowing OHV travel on designated county roads and city streets. This gives you easy access to trails, without worrying about vehicles on standby on street level.

• Difficulty level: 4/5
• Distance: 50 miles 
• Duration: 6-8 hours
• Elevation gain: 4,750 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Late Spring- Fall
• Contact: 970-878-5510, Meeker Chamber of Commerce
• How to get here: Riders must trailer to the Parking Lot area off FS601 (also acting as the trailhead). Driving to this parking lot is about 1.5 hours. Access the parking area by traveling County Road 8 for 20 miles, then turn right onto County Road 10 for 1.5 miles, turn right onto County Road 17 for 13 miles, and finally turn left onto County Road 125 for 0.5 miles to the parking lot. 
• Trail Map: Flat Tops

10. Hardscrabble Special Recreation Management Area

If you happen to be nearby Gypsum or Eagle, check out Hardscrabble Park.

This is a massive playground with designated routes for motorized and non-motorized users. The various trail opportunities are complemented with open landscapes of valleys, canyons, and dotted pine trees as well as juniper bushes.

There are a few single tracks for motorcycles and wide tracks for ATVs at this park too. The single-track mountain biking routes are located in Eastern Recreation Management Zones (RMZ) near Eagle, the double-track ATV trails on the western RMZ surrounding Gypsum.

Play this video to see how thrilling off-roading can be at Hardscrabble!

Tip: Eagle is an ATV-friendly town, providing easy access for ATVs, UTVs, 4×4, and singletrack to travel directly into the trails at Hardscrabble.

• Difficulty level: All levels are available
• Distance: Varies per trail (Multi-use trail system)
• Elevation: Ranges beyond 3,000 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: April 16th to November 30th 
• Contact: (970) 876-9000, Colorado River Valley Field Office, 2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652
• How to get here: 
  • From Eagle, travel 7.8 miles west on I-70, turning left (south) onto Trail Gulch Road, then Valley Rd and Gypsum Creek Rd for 11.1 miles until Hardscrabble Road (on the left).
  • The Spring Creek Trailhead offers motorized access to the ATV Trails. Non-motorized use can be accessed from The Buckhorn Valley Trailhead
• Trail Map: Hardscrabble SRMA

11. Colorado State Forest State Park, North Park

Is it one of your lifelong dreams to witness Colorado’s famous moose? If so, this is the place to ride your ATV!

Colorado State Forest State Park

Located in the moose-viewing capital of Colorado, North Park, State Forest State Park is home to about 600 moose here! You may catch sight of one of them!

This state park has about 60 miles of unequaled ATV trails and a bunch of other non-motorized recreation activities such as camping in a ($110 – $150/night) yurt, hiking, wildlife discovery, fishing and so much more. Perfect for your whole family!

Moose sighting in Colorado

For beautiful wildflowers, Ruby Jewel Route (moderate) is a recommended ATV trail, among others.

Tips: check out road closure updates first before you go.

• Difficulty level: All levels are available
• Distance: 60 miles, Varies per trail (Multi-use trail system)
• Elevation: 8,500 to 13,000 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike, E-Bike, SUV
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Year-round
• Contact: (970) 723-8366, Park Office, State Forest State Park
• How to get here: Drive 75 miles west from Ft. Collins via CO-14 over Cameron Pass. The drive is approx 2 hours.
• Map: State Forest State Park ATV Trails

12. Rollins Pass East

History lovers and railroad enthusiasts cannot miss out on this ATV trail!

Rollins Pass East is a trail with a deep history of human travel that traces back to 10,000 years ago. It follows through a former railroad route that was built in the early 20th century for easy travel to connect Denver and Salt Lake City.

Through this route, you’ll get to see two lakes, cool views of Winter Park, and Needle’s Eye Tunnel achievable with a short hike. This video shows you what to expect.

This ATV trail has some boulders with lots of potholes and drop-offs, but the wide route makes it easier to traverse.

Rollins Pass East, ATV Trails Colorado 

Tip:  The top of Rollins Pass, at 11,660 ft is the real deal. Now it might be a spot just in the middle of nowhere. But in the past, there was a hotel, restaurant, and quarters for the workers situated there.

• Difficulty level: 2/5
• Distance: 12 miles 
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Elevation: 11,320 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike, SUV
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: Summer-Fall
• Contact: (303) 541-2500, Roosevelt N.F. Boulder R.D.

• How to get here: From Rollinsville town on CO 119, head west on County Road 16 (Co 16) for 7.5 miles, onto Rollins Pass Rd. Continue for about 12 miles till the end of the road. 
• Trail Map: Rollins Pass East / Trail GPS waypoints

13. Rampart Range Recreation Area, Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs easily pops in the head when one visits Colorado. So, if you’re planning to have an adventure exploring the ATV trails near Colorado Springs, add the Rampart Range Recreation area to your bucket list. 

The area has 200 miles of interconnected trail system, with over 30 motorized trails suitable for all types of riders in the beautiful Pike-San Isabel National forest.

Some trails may be easy in one direction, and hard on the other, diverting into the woods. But the routes have clear trail markings, complete with a difficulty rating and usage allowed.

Beautiful scenery of Colorado Springs in Rampart Range Recreation Area

While there is no single, particular trail to follow here, most off-roaders would come to either reach Devil’s Head Lookout Tower to view the Devil’s Head Mountain; or camp overnight at the area’s most popular campground, Flat Rocks.

Tip: You can even bring your kids so they can learn how to ride without worrying about them wandering off too far. Kiddy Corral, located south of Flat Rocks is a fenced oval loop perfect for beginners and children.

ATV Trails Colorado:

• Difficulty level: All levels are available
• Distance: Varies per trail (Multi-use trail system)
• Elevation: Ranging from 6,500 ft to over 8,500 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: 4×4, ATV, OHV, dirt bike, snowmobiles
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Camping Fee: $22/night per camping site (RV included) / $7 for day use
• Open season: April 1 – Nov 30 annually
• Contact: 303 275 5610, South Platte Ranger District 

• How to get here: OHV trails can be accessed from south of Rampart Range Road, 7.2 miles (18 minutes) southeast from Woodland Park via Co Rd 22 and Rampart Range Rd. The trails begin from here, running south to Colorado Springs.
• Trail Map: Rampart Range / Available for free at your local USFS office or can be found here.

14. Sevenmile Creek OHV Route, Red Feather Lakes 

Sevenmile Creek OHV Route is one of the best trails to ride nearby Red Feather Lakes, a popular offroading destination in Northern Colorado. 

This moderate ATV trail begins from the floor of the valley, twisting along a scenic rocky creek, then climbing out into flat forest land. In the flat area, you can settle down for camping.

Otherwise, you can explore several interconnected networks of side paths with your ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes which the trail can be combined with Kelly Flats.

Some areas are muddy, rocky, and washed out. But nothing you can’t handle!

Want to know what the trail is like? Check out this video.

Tip: Keep a watchful eye, because you might even spot elks around!

ATV Trails Colorado:

• Difficulty level: 3/5
• Distance: 7 miles
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Elevation gain: 1791 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, UTV, High clearance 4×4, SUV, Dirt Bike (unlicensed)
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: June-September
• Contact: (970) 295-6700, Roosevelt National Forest, Canyon Lakes Ranger District

• How to get here: From Rustic, head northeast on Co-14 towards Co-69, turn left onto Co Rd 69 B, and continue for 0.4 miles to reach the trailhead.
• Trail map: Sevenmile Creek

15.  Yankee Hill OHV Road, Central City

Not to be confused with Yankee Boy Basin, which is in America’s Switzerland, Ouray. Yankee Hill is a breathtaking ATV mountain route in Central City/St Mary’s network.

Along the Yankee Hill OHV road, you will ride past surreal wildflowers. Then, drive up towards the top, where you can witness breathtaking views of the snow-capped Colorado Rockies. 

The trail has a mix of some loose rock obstacles, with narrow and steep tracks now and then, but nothing too difficult. This video is a good example.

The grand view of Colorado vistas will make you push through.

Not enough with that, this long trail also connects you to other trails that connect to must-see spots: St. Mary’s Glacier and Chinn’s Lake. An additional hiking trip is needed to see the glacier.

St. Mary’s Glacier, Colorado

Photo by Paul Arterburn on Unsplash

Tip:

• This trail is incredibly packed with hikers, dirt bikes, OHVs on the weekend. Come early.
• Yankee Hill has plenty of adjoining roads that provides numerous ATV opportunities. It’s easy to get confused when navigating. Carry a GPS.

ATV Trails Colorado:

• Difficulty level: 3/5
• Distance: 9.5 miles point-to-point
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Elevation: 10,930 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATV, SxS, High clearance 4×4, Dirt Bike,
• Permit: OHVs must be registered through Colorado State Parks’ OHV Registration Program.
• Open season: July-Sept
• Contact: (303) 567-3000, Arapaho N.F. Clear Creek R.D.

• How to get there: From Denver, Take I-70 and head west to Fall River Road, Exit 238. Drive north for 8.5 miles to Mine Road on the right. To start at Cumberland Gulch, bear right where switchback swings left, 7.0 miles up Fall River Rd.
• Trail Map: Yankee Hill

16.  RAM Off-Road Park 

RAM Off-Road Park is one of the ATV Trails Colorado Springs has to offer for off-roaders.

Sprawling over 86 acres of recreational space, the area is big enough to accommodate all types of riders, beginner and advanced; dirt bikers, ATV riders, or Jeeps.

RAM Off-Road Park, Colorado Springs

You’ll be presented with choices like tracks, 1.5 miles off-road track, kid’s track, classic rock obstacles, mud holes, and a couple of freestyle jumps. There are dry-creek beds and a little bit of everything for you to play around with.

The park hosts a couple of exciting events too.

Tips:

• Ladies, if you’re intimidated with offroading and want to try experimenting first, come during the park’s Girls Ride “Toosday”. It’s a special event where the park prepares the track as a safe, low-pressure environment compared to other normal days.
• Tracks are all directional here, and the way to go is clockwise. 
• Super crowded on the weekends.

• Difficulty level: All levels are available (with kids track)
• Distance: Over 86 acres of space. Varies per trail
• Elevation: 6200 to 6300 ft
• Vehicles Allowed: ATVs, UTVs, 4×4, Jeep, and dirt bikes
• Fee:
  • $15 per dirt bike
  • $15 per ATV/Quad
  • $20 per 4×4/UTV
  • $10 for Kids aged 10 and younger

Pre-pay online here.

• Waiver form: Every visitor (adults and minors), riding or not, must sign the waiver form once a year. Fill in online beforehand.
• Open season:
  • Monday-Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
  • Saturday-Sunday: 9:00am-4:00pm
• Contact: (719) 650-3044, 12800 State Highway 94, Colorado Springs, CO 80929

• How to get there: RAM Off-Road Park can be accessed east of Colorado Springs, via a 13.0 miles drive through E Platte Ave and CO-94.
• Trail Map: RAM Off-Road Park

Do You Need A License To Ride An ATV In Colorado?

The requirement to possess a valid driver’s license varies by county.

However, all Off-highway vehicles (ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes) are required to be registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to be able to operate on public lands and trails.

For Colorado Residents

To ride an ATV in Colorado (in the OHV staging area or on designated OHV routes in Colorado), the vehicle must display current registration stickers and have a valid license plate.

Registration is from April 1- March 31 each year, at an annual fee of $25.25.

For Out-of-state Residents

ATVs and other forms of OHVs from out-of-state must display the Colorado OHV use permit sticker. Permit ($25.25) can be purchased at CPW Shop.

Specific Local Enforcements

In general, you are not permitted to ride an OHV in the streets of Colorado. However, some cities and counties are OHV-friendly, as they have specific local regulations on ATV use.

Check out this list of Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) to know which roads and trails in Colorado are open to motorized (and what type) vehicles.

Children Operating An ATV In Colorado

To operate an ATV on Colorado’s public land roads, you must be at least 10 years old.

Children aged 10 till 16 must be accompanied by an adult with a valid driver’s license, at all times.

What Is The Best ATV Trail App?

For the best ATV riding in Colorado, get COTREX. It is the best ATV trail app for navigating Colorado’s remote parts, backcountry route, or high up in the mountains.

COTREX is a FREE app developed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. It functions as a website and an app.

Some features of the COTREX app include:

• Downloadable offline comprehensive trail maps (riding, biking, hiking, and even horseback riding),
• Featured areas/routes,
• GPS capabilities,
• Ride tracking,
• Information on seasonal closures/user type for over 41,000 miles of trails and much more

Alternatively, you can also check out ONXMaps (paid) at $29.99/yr.

What State Has The Best ATV Trails?

Besides ATV Trails Colorado, the states that have the best ATV trails are Wyoming, California, Utah, and Louisiana.

Wyoming

Located just up north of Colorado, Wyoming’s Black Hills National Forest is a hotspot for offroading. The area presents more than 700 miles of ATV trails in vast grassland and dense forest areas with a large area of wilderness spaces.

Black Hills National Forest, Wyoming

Big Horn Mountains, Wyoming is also one of the places to explore remote wilderness amidst 188 miles of ATV trails. 

Utah

You can’t ditch out Utah when it comes to ATV riding in the USA! Also a neighboring state to Colorado, on the eastern side, Utah’s desert landscape of canyons and red rock routes makes it a dream for riders to enjoy!

The best place to ride your heart out is in Moab, where there are tons of public land and national parks that offer designated trails for ATV, 4×4, or backcountry trails.

Paiute Trail is also one not to be missed! Regarded as one of the best 15 trails in the country, this is a 275-mile long trail in South-Central Utah with fantastic scenery.

Paiute Trail, Utah

California

If Utah lets you ride along red rocks, California has dunes.

A fun-filled dune riding area to consider in Cali is the Imperial Sand Dunes, otherwise known as “Glamis”. Heralded as the largest sand dune recreation area for OHVs in the country, with 40 miles in-band and 5 miles wide, Glamis is a dune paradise for ATV riders.

Imperial “Glamis” Sand Dunes, California

Other than that, you can check out Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site, and Oceano Dunes.

Louisiana 

If you’re intending to travel further to the southeast, head on to Louisiana. Where mud riding is HUGE!

Mud riding in Louisiana 

A muddy spot with a big reputation is hands down Louisiana Mudfest. Besides that, Muddy Bottoms ATV & Recreation Park is great too. 

If you like gravel, dirt, sand tracks, Bonnet Carre Spillway would be cool. Otherwise, a wildlife-seeking scenic ride at South Toledo is awesome.

Unique Tips You Should Know

Some unique tips you should know for the best ATV riding in Colorado:

1. Know The Laws

Every state and county has different requirements when it comes to ATV riding. 

If you’re taking your ATV on vacation, make sure you know the rules and laws before you hitch up the trailer, or ride them on town streets (it is usually illegal in some areas). Some towns and counties may be friendlier to ATV.

Check your area earlier to know more about the restrictions before riding.

2. Go During Off-season

Avoid going for an ATV ride on the weekends or holidays because the traffic can be horrible. 

Summer, Spring, and Early Fall are the best time to go off-roading. 

3. Get Insured

You might be a good driver, but sometimes unwanted incidents happen. Boulders drop, a route is broken, etc etc.

While we do not wish for anything bad to happen, when push comes to shove, it is best to have yourself protected with insurance earlier. So you can ride in peace, and in confidence, no matter where you go.

4. Ride Safely

Safety tips that you should be aware of are:

• Never ride under the influence of alcohol.
• Stay on designated trails only. And only go as far as it is safe.
• Obey posted signs for parking and trails.
• Watch for oncoming traffic.
• Don’t exceed your limit. Be it speed, high gravity angle, approach passes carefully. And make sure you ride with realistic expectations of your skills.
• Don’t ride alone. Unless you are a seasoned rider, make sure you are accompanied by an experienced friend, guide, or family member so that if anything happens (we hope not!), you’ll have back up.

5. Know Basic Riding Techniques

Take a hands-on safety course to learn how to operate your ATV.

Techniques like changing gears, being familiar with controls, good postures, and know when to hover will help.

Practice the brakes, shifting gears, and how to steer with the handlebars until you are comfortable and confident to handle them by yourself.

Otherwise, you can learn the basic safety and riding techniques from this helpful video.

6. Ride An ATV That’s Suitable For Your Age

Bigger OHVs like UHVs might be tempting, but they are built to withstand tougher terrains and for professionals.

Choose the right ATV for you. If you are a beginner, start with a simple machine, go slowly at first. 

Consult the professionals if you are unsure.

7. Wear Protective ATV Riding Gear

Always wear protective clothing gear. Because you’ll never know when you’ll need to duck under branches or get dirt splashed onto you.

That includes a DOT-certified helmet, protective gloves, shin guards, good boots. Get this 3-in1 gear combo for a sweet deal on a DOT-certified helmet, gloves, and riding goggles!

You’ll also want to dress appropriately according to the weather, and the altitude you’re heading towards.

8. Call The Ranger District Earlier On To Know The Status Update

Remote ATV trails are prone to seasonal or temporary closure, due to environmental conditions, safety reasons, or traffic volume. 

So, always, always call the ranger district in advance to know the road closure status and trail conditions before you head out.

9. Have All The Necessary Backup Items And Documents

Have your spare tires at bay.

Obtain detailed maps, regulations, and information before riding. In case you need to make a phone call or traverse the route on your own. 

Remember, remote places barely have cell receptions!

• Conclusion

So, there you have it … Your Epic Guide to ATV Trails Colorado! 

Let’s be real, riding on some of the ATV Trails Colorado may seem daunting–especially climbing up on the mountain terrains. 

But as long as you prepare mentally and physically early on, do a lot of research, you don’t have to worry about anything.

All that’s left to do in Colorado is just to eat, ride an ATV, enjoy its nature, sleep, and repeat!

So where are you planning to go off-roading next?