Best ATV Trails in Colorado

As one of eight mountain states, Colorado is the perfect place for having fun off-road. You'll love its elevated trails that provide a mix of challenging terrains. Not every off-road trail in Colorado allows ATVs, but if you love having fun on four wheels, these local off-road tracks are exactly what you're looking for.

Rollins Pass East, Nederland

If you're new to off-roading, Rollins Pass East is the perfect introduction. This 12.3-mile track is the easiest of the two Rollins Pass trails, and ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, and motorbikes are all welcome. The terrain is rocky with plenty of potholes to test your skills, but the path isn't very technical. The trail is also very wide, so even the drop-offs don't feel too daunting.

Rollins Pass East is a scenic trail that takes you through forests and past a pair of lakes. The view of Winter Park and the nearby mountains near the trail's end is as pretty as a picture. The area is also rich in history. History buffs may appreciate that this site was home to the original railroad that looked to connect Colorado to America's west.

Once you've conquered Rollins Pass East, head to Rollins Pass West near Winter Park. It's not exactly hair-raising, but its terrain suits riders with intermediate skills, especially after rain. Both trails usually open from late July to fall, depending on the local snowfall.

Alpine Loop, Silverton

Image via Flickr by BLM-Colorado

If it's elevated trails you're looking for, the Alpine Loop is hard to beat. We love this 65-mile trail loop that features two Rocky Mountain passes — Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass — which are both more than 12,000 feet above sea level. Despite its extreme height, most of the trail is pretty easy. You'll need moderate skills to handle the rock shelves and drop-offs, but there are plenty of sections that suit beginners. Since the loop is so long, you can easily take just a small journey until you get your skills up.

Many people regard the Alpine Loop as one of Colorado's most beautiful trails, so you can expect crowds. It's often packed with ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, and motorbikes on weekends and the summer vacation period. If you really want to avoid the crowds and you don't mind a little cold or even light snow, hit this trail in late October.

Elwood Pass, Pagosa Springs

Elwood Pass is another great option for people who love long trails. Like the Alpine Loop, it's around 65 miles, although it's much more demanding so best suited to very experienced riders. Take care as you cross the East Fork River near the start of the track, and don't even attempt the crossing during heavy rain. The rocky sections are also demanding. Keep an eye out for the makeshift barrier erected where a UTV rider met an untimely end in 2016. It's a little jarring to see, but it serves a practical purpose, reminding riders of the safest path.

It's not all about adrenaline though. As you scale the summit, the ride becomes almost leisurely. At the top, travel right to Platerno, where you can find lodging and restaurants. Rest for the evening, then set off early to take on the trail in reverse. Visit Elwood Pass during summer, when the East Fork River's water level is fairly low. Along with ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, and motorcycles can all ride Elwood Pass.

Wagon Wheel Trails, Meeker

The Wagon Wheel Trails in Meeker are another excellent option for riders with advanced skills. This 50-mile trail winds through the home of one of America's largest elk herds. It's a bit of a local secret, unlike many of these popular trails, so you probably won't get bothered by crowds, even when the sun's out. Despite the large wildlife presence, ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, and motorbikes are all welcome here.

The trail sits 6,240 feet above sea level, ensuring that riders get great views of the local mountain ranges, lakes, and the rugged China Wall. The wildflowers that bloom during spring are also stunning. When you're not admiring the view, focus on the technicalities of the trail. The path contains a few water crossings, so take care after storms.

Wagon Wheel Trails is usually accessible from late spring to fall. Some sections may stay closed during June if the elks are still calving.

Black Bear Pass, Near Telluride

As its imposing name suggests, Black Bear Pass is not for the faint-hearted. This 8.5-mile trail is highly technical, with rock steps, switchbacks, and dramatic drop-offs. If that wasn't enough excitement, the trail sits 12,840 feet above sea level. If you've got the skills for it though, you'll appreciate the challenge and the amazing surroundings, including the opportunity to get up close and personal with Colorado's highest waterfall, Bridal Veil Fall.

As you might expect for a trail up so high, Black Bear Pass' season is short, lasting from late summer to fall, depending on how much snow falls. Experienced ATV, UTV, 4x4, and motorcycle riders are welcome. A short wheelbase will help you conquer this demanding trail.

Webster and Red Cone Pass Trail, Montezuma

Webster and Red Cone Pass Trail is another option for experienced riders who want to push their off-roaders to the limit. While it doesn't have the technical passages of Black Bear Pass, only the most confident riders can handle its steep drop-offs. Enjoy the mountain views and spotting the occasional mountain goat as you make your way along this 20-mile trail. ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, and motorbikes are welcome, although motorized vehicles can't use the trails from Nov. 23 to May 20, when winter snow makes the trail treacherous. We think it's the most fun from late July to fall.

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