Colorado Mountains, Skiing, Ghost Towns, 4×4, and Vacations

Off road motorcycling and quad riding are popular sports in Summit County and its surrounding areas.  Beginning in the mid 1850’s through the 1890’s dozens of mining camps and small towns sprang up throughout the mountain areas in Summit County.  Because of these camps and towns, trails are still visible and run rampant through the mountains in Summit County.  Many of these dirt bike and ATV trails begin outside of local towns while others just appear within the landscape.  Not only is dirt bike and ATV riding authorized on these trails, but also there are numerous single-track trails in Summit County to be explored.

Colorado off road tags are required in most areas which is actually money well spent.  Funds are utilized to maintain trails as well as code enforcement.  The license may be obtained from local motorcycle shops.

The Ute Pass area contains many different trails and is my favorite riding area.  There are numerous motorcycle trails in the area for beginning to intermediate riders, as well as steep and difficult to negotiate trails for the advanced rider.  You could ride for days in this area and never run out of scenery or new motorcycle trails.

If you are looking for a secluded weekend getaway, the Ute Pass area is the place to go.  Once you get off the Ute Pass Road, you will not run into many people along the motorcycle trails.  You can take a break in an open meadow and hear nothing but the wildlife, which is abundant in this area.  The views are spectacular and the Columbines dot the lush green landscapes making the area perfect for photos.

Since the Ute Pass area is only about 12 miles from Silverthorne, hotels and restaurants are easily accessible.  Be sure to save time in your day to visit the local summer events held in Silverthorne, Dillon, Keystone, Frisco, and Breckenridge.  Many of these events are held outdoors and provide a vast amount of entertainment for the whole family.

There are vast amounts of deer in the area that like to run across the trail in front of you, so always beware of them and other animals.  This area is also heavily infested with the tree beetles, which have killed many trees.  Please be aware of how high this makes the fire danger.

Directions:

From Silverthorne and I-70, head north for about 12 miles on Blue River Pkwy/CO-9.  Ute Pass Rd/CO-15 will be in the right.  Travel on Ute Pass Rd/CO-15 for about 2 miles, until the pavement ends.