Smuggler Mountain and Improved Road offers a lot of fun for ATV riders. This ATV trail has become very popular with more than just ATV enthusiasts. Folks are flocking to the trails
for hiking, biking and more.
Smuggler Road ATV trail isn't the longest trail you'll ever ride, but the gorgeous views of Aspen have made it a very popular place to be. There is a section of trail going through Hunter Creek which isn't so heavily used, so ATVers have more freedom to ride.
The ATV trail is fairly well maintained by the White River National Forest parks system, but the ascent is truly steep, so you're going to need 4 wheel drive to get you up the hill.
ATVers will find the switchbacks get longer as the road curves behind Smuggler Mountain. Watch for a short steep path on the right that will take your ATV to a viewing platform where you can get a spectacular view of Aspen.
Next stop Hunter Creek. Turn your ATV to the left just after the platform, and be sure to stay on the main ATV trail because there are a couple of side roads to get lost on. Eventually you'll come to a gate, just drive your ATV around it and keep heading up the hill. You'll come to an old bridge. Cross the bridge, turn left and follow the ATV trail along the west side of the river and turn right onto the single track Hunter Creek ATV Trail which leads to the Sunnyside Trail, Van Horn Park, and Lenado.
The single track ATV trail will take you through the meadow and then descend fairly steeply through the trees until you cross Benedict Bridge. Stay straight, and the ATV trail soon reaches the paved road of Hunter Creek. Turn left and follow Hunter Creek Road to the intersection of Red Mountain Road. Take another left and follow Red Mountain Road back to Aspen.
Smuggler Mountain Road ATV trail is truly a great ride.
