Overview
This loop combines easy county roads with a short section of moderately rough terrain on East Willow Road. The route climbs steadily through historic mining areas with several remnants of old structures along the way.
Trail Stats
- Estimated Distance: ~9â11 miles
- Elevation Range: 8,740 ft to 10,720 ft
- Total Elevation Gain: ~2,000 ft
- Travel Time (recorded): ~2 hours 5 minutes
- Estimated 4WD Time: 2â2.5 hours
Terrain & Conditions
The majority of the route follows wide, maintained dirt roads with gradual grades and smooth surfaces. Expect washboard in places and typical loose gravel on corners.
East Willow Road adds a bit of character, with narrower sections, embedded rocks, and uneven surfaces. These sections are short but require attention to line choice and clearance.
Climbs are steady rather than steep, and there are no major obstacles or ledges. Conditions can change quickly with weather, especially after rain.
Difficulty
Level 2 (Moderate Easy)
Most of the trail is accessible to stock high-clearance vehicles. The rougher stretches on East Willow Road justify the step up from a basic dirt road.
Scenery & Highlights
The route passes several historic mine structures and ruins, including a notable mine building waypoint along the loop. ă1-89571fă
Open views of surrounding peaks and valleys are frequent as the road gains elevation. Aspen stands and evergreen forest provide variety throughout the drive.
Notes
Watch for oncoming traffic on narrow sections. Dust can be heavy in dry conditions. Snow may linger early in the season at higher elevations.
Summary
This is a scenic, beginner-friendly loop with just enough rough terrain to keep it interesting. It works well as a half-day run and is ideal for exploring historic mining areas without committing to technical driving.
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