Popular SXS Trails in Colorado for Winter Riding
Here in Colorado, opportunities for outdoor adventure are everywhere you turn. From the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains to rugged terrain and rolling meadows, there’s always something new to explore. And for off-roading enthusiasts, Colorado is the perfect place to be – especially during the winter months. We’ve put together a guide to the best OHV, side-by-side SxS trails in Colorado for winter riding.
We cover some of our favorite parts of the Centennial State. Whether you’re a longtime local or planning a winter getaway to Colorado, here are a few of the exceptional OHV trails you’ll want to check out.
Our Top Off-Roading SxS Trails in Colorado
Texas Creek ATV Trails
Texas Creek is an off-roader’s dream in the south-central region of Colorado. With an extensive network of OHV trails, it’s easily one of the best places for SxS riding in CO. Depending on your experience and preference, you can pick between the eastern trails for flatter, more beginner-friendly riding or the western area for rocky, more intense rides.
Lizard Head Trail
About 10 miles southwest of Telluride is the Lizard Head Wilderness, spanning more than 41,000 acres of scenic Colorado land. ATV and SxS riders can enjoy the Lizard Head Trail, a nearly 8-mile stretch that begins at Lizard Head Pass. Traverse through the forests of towering fir and aspen trees and enjoy beautiful views of Bill Creek Basin and the waterfalls along the way.
Taylor Park
Taylor Park is located within the Gunnison National Forest, providing nearly 100 miles of OHV trails. You’ll want to hit this spot in early winter because the park closes by the end of November. There’s a mix of narrow, rocky trails, smooth, wide roads, and several campgrounds, fishing, and boating.
Wagon Wheel Trail System
If you’re searching for places to ride ATVs in Colorado, you’re bound to hear great things about the Wagon Wheel Trail System – and this is a spot that lives up to its reputation. It offers over 600 miles of trails that take you through the White River National Forest, with a solid mix of options for all experience levels. You’ll pass by historical sites and gorgeous views, and you can also enjoy hunting, fishing, and camping during your visit.
Alpine Loop
Alpine Loop is a circular route among the popular ATV trails in CO, traveling through Lake City, Silverton, and Ouray. The loop covers about 65 miles from start to finish and passes by several historical sites, including the ghost towns of Capitol City and Animas Forks.
St. Mary’s Glacier
Did you know that the state of Colorado has its very own glacier? St. Mary’s Glacier is a must-see sight, and off-roaders can choose between two trail systems (Empire and St. Mary’s). The trails are a mix of rocky and smooth terrain, but the rewarding views of the unique glacial setting are well worth the challenge.
Bull Mountain
This trail follows an old logging road, which you can use to access the North Michigan Reservoir about four miles in. Because the snowfall is packed and well-groomed, it’s an enjoyable ride suitable for various vehicles and experience levels. Come back during the summer months to take the trail all the way up to Bull Mountain.
Ruby Jewel Route
Ruby Jewel Route is near the small town of Walden and is accessible all year long. You’ll park at the Ruby Jewel yurt and make your way up, climbing to an altitude of more than 9,100 feet. If you enjoy hiking, you can continue on foot from there.
Grand Mesa Trails
It’s common for CO visitors to ask: can you drive ATVs in national forests? If you stick to the marked ATV trails like the Grand Mesa Trails, the answer is yes. These trails are close to Grand Junction and take you on a breathtaking journey through the area’s meadows, forests, and lakes.
Rainbow Falls Trails
Tucked in the heart of Pike National Forest, the Rainbow Falls area has about 20 miles of ATV-friendly trails. The smooth terrain and moderate trails make it an ideal destination for most ability levels, but be mindful of riding only in designated areas.
Mendenhall Route
Particularly popular with hunters, Mendenhall Route, is a steep climb that covers about 8 miles in total (and about 2,000 feet in gained altitude!). You can take your ATV all the way to Medicine Bow Trail, the N. Sand Dunes, and Route NF, where the views are spectacular on a clear day.
Hardscrabble Mountain
Situated between Eagle and Gypsum, the Hardscrabble Special Recreation Management Area features a series of specially designated SxS/ATV trails. The trails will take you around Hardscrabble Mountain on the area’s western side.
Red Feather Lakes
For a selection of trails offering varying riding difficulty levels, make your way to the Roosevelt National Forest. At Red Feather Lakes (just west of Fort Collins), OHV riders can head out on more than 100 miles of trails throughout the area.
Crested Butte Areas
The Crested Butte Areas are a welcoming destination for new and seasoned riders alike. On the eastern side, experienced off-roaders can test their skills on one of three trails: Pearl Pass, Italian Creek Road, and Taylor Pass (one of the most challenging in the state). Or, check out the northern part of the Crested Butte Areas for easier trails like Gothic and Slate Roads.
New and Pre-Owned OHVs for Sale in CO
Ready to make the most of Colorado OHV trails this winter? Fay Myers Motorcycle World has you covered with an extensive selection of new and pre-owned ATVs, SxS vehicles, dirt bikes, and more in Greenwood Village, CO. And if you already have an off-road vehicle, we’ll keep you on the trails with first-class service and parts.
When it comes to SxS/ATV trails in Colorado, there’s no shortage of incredible riding destinations to choose from. Make sure you’re ready for an exciting off-roading season – come to Fay Myers Motorcycle World today!
