Explore Colorado’s Most Scenic OHV Adventures Near Silverton Lakes

Nestled high in the San Juan Mountains, Silverton, Colorado, is a dream destination for off-road enthusiasts. With dramatic alpine passes, panoramic vistas, and historic mining relics scattered across the landscape, every trail promises adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned Jeep driver or new to OHV exploration, these five must-do trails near Silverton Lakes deliver a thrilling combination of beauty, challenge, and classic Colorado history.

Below are the top routes—hand-picked from the area’s highest-rated trails—that will take you from mountain lakes to ghost towns and everywhere in between.

Ride like a local with trail spotlights, safety tips, and route ideas for beginners to experienced off-roaders.

Jeep Trail Highlights

1. Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route

Difficulty: Moderate • Distance: 12.3 miles
If you only have time for one off-road adventure, make it the Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route. This trail winds through wide-open tundra and rugged mountain passes, revealing views that stretch for miles. Along the way, you’ll follow a mountain stream and pass a picturesque waterfall before arriving at Animas Forks, one of Colorado’s best-preserved ghost towns.

Drivers should be prepared for steep drop-offs and uneven terrain, but the payoff is worth it—exploring the 19th-century mining cabins against a backdrop of towering peaks feels like stepping back in time. It’s a must for anyone seeking a mix of history and high-country adventure.

Pro tip: Check your brakes before the descent and bring extra layers—the elevation and exposure make temperatures drop quickly.

2. Corkscrew Gulch

Difficulty: Moderate • Distance: 7 miles
A local favorite, Corkscrew Gulch cuts through the heart of Colorado’s mining country and connects to Hurricane Pass. The name comes from its series of tight switchbacks that twist between Red Mountain #1 and #2, creating an exhilarating ascent with panoramic mountain views.

You can park and camp near the bottom of the trail along Highway 550, which makes this a great choice for travelers based near Silverton Lakes RV Resort or nearby campgrounds. When dry, Corkscrew is an easy-to-moderate ride, but weather can change quickly—wet conditions can make sections slick.

Ride like a local: Stop at one of the scenic pullouts for incredible photo ops of the red-hued peaks and alpine wildflowers.

3. Black Bear Pass OHV Trail

Difficulty: Hard • Distance: 10 miles
The legendary Black Bear Pass OHV Trail is one of the most iconic 4×4 routes in Colorado—and not for the faint of heart. Beginning in Silverton and descending into Telluride, this route offers breathtaking views above Red Mountain Pass and across Bridal Veil Falls, the state’s tallest free-falling waterfall.

The upper section is moderately challenging, but the one-way switchback descent into Telluride demands precision and confidence behind the wheel. It’s typically open from late July through early fall, depending on snowmelt, and best suited for experienced off-roaders or those traveling with a guide.

Safety first: Keep your vehicle in low gear, maintain steady momentum, and never attempt the Telluride descent in bad weather or poor visibility.

4. Bullion King Lake Road

Difficulty: Moderate • Distance: 7.3 miles
For a shorter but equally rewarding ride, the Bullion King Lake Road delivers stunning alpine scenery with sparkling lakes and waterfalls at its end. The trail climbs steeply to about 12,500 feet, where the crisp air and panoramic mountain views make for a perfect picnic stop.

Wildflowers carpet the landscape in mid-summer, and photographers love this route for its mix of color and elevation. There’s limited parking for trailers and unlicensed vehicles along Highway 550, so plan ahead if you’re hauling an OHV.

Best season: July through September, when the snow has melted and the lakes reflect the surrounding peaks like glass.

5. Corkscrew Gulch and California Gulch OHV Trail

Difficulty: Moderate • Distance: 23.7 miles
If you’re looking to spend a full day exploring the San Juans, the Corkscrew Gulch and California Gulch OHV Trail combines two beloved routes into one unforgettable loop. Expect everything from wide mountain meadows to historic mining structures and old rail grades along this 23-mile journey.

This trail gives you a little bit of everything—high-altitude views, rocky sections, and opportunities to spot wildlife like marmots and mountain goats. It’s an ideal route for intermediate off-roaders ready to expand their comfort zone without taking on the technical challenges of Black Bear Pass.

Local tip: Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water. Afternoon storms are common, so start early to avoid lightning above treeline.

OHV Safety and Trail Etiquette

Before hitting the trails, make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with recovery gear, a full tank of gas, and an updated GPS map. Many of these routes climb above 12,000 feet—where cell service can be spotty and weather unpredictable.

• Stay on designated trails to protect fragile tundra vegetation.

• Yield to uphill traffic—those climbing have the right of way.

• Pack out what you pack in, leaving no trace for future riders.

• Check local regulations: some routes restrict unlicensed OHVs.

For the latest conditions, contact the San Juan Mountains Center in Silverton at (970) 387-5530.

Ride, Explore, and Stay at Silverton Lakes

After a day conquering the peaks, unwind back at Silverton Lakes—where comfort meets Colorado adventure. Whether you’re camping under the stars or enjoying full-hookup RV sites, this is the perfect basecamp for exploring the San Juan backcountry.

With easy access to trailheads, friendly staff, and stunning mountain views, Silverton Lakes makes it easy to ride, relax, and repeat your next off-road adventure.

Book your stay today and discover why Silverton is one of Colorado’s most unforgettable OHV destinations!