Trail Overview
This route covers approximately 40.4 miles through a mix of maintained forest roads and more rugged sections as it transitions toward Bear Spring Gulch. The trail begins on easier graded roads and gradually introduces rougher terrain with rockier segments and mild climbs.
Trail Stats
- Distance: 40.4 miles
- Elevation Range: 7,535 ft to 11,075 ft
- Elevation Gain: 6,400 ft
- Elevation Loss: 6,780 ft
- Net Elevation Change: -380 ft
- Recorded Time: 3 hr 43 min
Trail Conditions
Lower sections are smooth and wide with gradual grades. The route becomes rockier and more uneven as it climbs, with embedded rocks and rutted stretches near Bear Spring Gulch.
Trail Character
The first portion of the route follows smoother dirt roads suitable for most high-clearance vehicles. Expect wide paths, gradual grades, and consistent surfaces early on.
As the route progresses, the trail narrows and becomes more uneven. Rocky stretches, embedded stone, and occasional rutted sections appear, especially approaching Bear Spring Gulch. These sections slow progress and require careful tire placement. Elevation changes are steady throughout, with several climbs into higher alpine terrain. The upper sections offer thinner forest cover and more exposed terrain, while lower areas pass through dense trees.
Difficulty
Level 2–3
Begins easy and transitions to moderate difficulty. High clearance is recommended, with low range useful in rougher sections.
Scenery
- Wide forest corridors with open stretches early in the route
- Higher elevation views near the 11,000 ft range
- Mixed terrain transitions from forest to more exposed alpine areas
4WD Time Estimate
Plan for 4 to 6 hours depending on stops, trail conditions, and vehicle capability. Slower travel is likely in rocky sections near the latter half of the route.
Highlights
- Progression from easy roads to moderate terrain
- Rocky sections near Bear Spring Gulch
- Mix of forest and higher elevation views