Looking for a challenging ride on your 4-wheeler? In the South Central region of Colorado, there are a lot of extremely difficult 4-wheeler trails and this one of the most challenging. This 4-wheeler trail is located in the Rio Grande National Forest and the riding season is relatively short, from June to October and be aware that you are likely to see snow during the early and late parts of the riding season.
As with most National Forest managed areas, some strict guidelines apply if you're going to ride your 4-wheeler in this area. You must be wearing a DOT approved helmet and you must have your 4-wheeler permit clearly displayed on your 4-wheeler at all times. They also require that you have a muffler and spark arrestor installed on your 4-wheeler to reduce noise pollution and fire hazards that are a possibility any time of year, but especially during the riding season.
These are multi-use trails and your chances of encountering other traffic is possible along this 6 mile stretch of 4-wheeler road. This 4-wheeler road is open to hikers, horseback riders, hunters, motorcyclists, mountain bikers, and you will see the occasional fisherman on his way as you ride by on your 4-wheeler.
If you are not experienced in handling your 4-wheeler in rough terrain, do not attempt this 4-wheeler trail. This is an enjoyable but very rough 4-wheeler ride and if getting through the Medano Creek drainage to the summit of Medano Pass, is beyond your 4-wheeler handling skills, then know your limitations, do not try to gain experience by riding on this trail. It can be pretty expensive if you do not yet have the skillset to ride this trail and you get into a sticky situation and need to be towed, as the minimum towing charge is $50.00. Gain experience and trailriding knowledge first, then come riding at Medano Pass.
Near the end of the trail, it will begin to get narrow with steep rocky slopes covered by Douglas fir, spruce/fir and aspen. Most of the 4-wheeler trail has decent vehicle clearance, its only the last .5 mile of the road is steep, at Medano Pass. You will get a big bonus on this 4-wheeler ride as the view of the San Luis Valley to the west is outstanding. Enjoy your ride at Medano Pass!
