Research
Where to find trails
Two resources cover most of what you need:
- Trails Offroad (website and app). Trails listed by state with interactive maps, difficulty ratings, open and closed status, recent reviews, warnings about obstacles, and estimated time and distance.
- FunTreks guidebooks. Detailed books by state or region, including Colorado and Northern Colorado, with rated trails, waypoints, maps, directions to the trailhead and a description of the terrain. Keep one in the rig in case your phone or GPS dies.
Forums and trail groups fill in the rest with recent conditions. Ask around before you go, or ride with the Off-Road Club and let someone who has done the trail lead.
Difficulty
Reading trail ratings
Most guides rate trails with colors, like ski runs:
- Green / Easy. Beginner-friendly. Most stock 4x4s with good tires can handle them.
- Blue / Moderate. Rougher terrain and real obstacles. Expect to need clearance and some experience.
- Black / Difficult. Large obstacles and real risk of damage. Built rigs and experienced drivers, ideally with a group.
Ratings describe normal conditions. Weather, washouts and snow can make any trail harder, so check recent reviews before you go.
Choosing trails that match your rig and your skill level keeps the day safe and fun, and it’s how you build up to the harder ones. When you’re ready to step up, talk to us about what your rig needs.