Room to roam
The 10,000-acre Fourmile Travel Management Recreation Area is widely acclaimed as one of the best off-road vehicle recreation playgrounds in the state. It would take weeks on end to explore the spaghetti-like network of trails. Maps and trail signs indicate roads open to general driving, extreme four-wheeling, ATV-only or single track (dirt bikes), as well as trails reserved for non-motorized recreation. Open year-round, though seasonal gates close some areas from Dec. 1 to around April 30. Check with local off-road retailers and outfitters for current conditions.
Ghost town hopping
A parking lot in the valley near Shirley townsite provides a perfect staging area for exploring the Marshall Pass area southwest of Poncha Springs. St Elmo, Hancock, Vicksburg and Winfield are all great destinations that offer a glimpse into the storied past of Colorado. An abundance of both public and private campgrounds are available but keep in mind there are some seasonal road closures that might affect your adventure!
Dirt devotees
Buena Vista’s annual ATV Historical Color Tour has been a hit since its inception five years ago. Participants in this five-day event are invited to visit the area’s old mining sites and ghost towns on self-guided tours. Socializing is the keynote feature of evening activities including barbecues and a beer garden in the park, entertainment and awards. The event has sold out every year since the first, so advance registration is advised at ColoradoATVTour.org
All off-road vehicles (OHV’s) must be registered with Colorado State Parks. OHV’s include motorcycles, dirtbikes, three-wheelers, ATVs, and dune buggies that are operated on public land or trails in Colorado.
Purchase registration online at: www.state.parks.co.us or at the Arkansas Headwaters office in Salida.
