Beginner Off-Road Trails Near Denver: 5 Easy 4×4 Routes
Scenic, Safe, and Perfect for First-Time Jeepers
Think you need hardcore gear or expert skills to go off-roading in Colorado? Think again. Some of the state’s most scenic and easy 4×4 trails near Denver are perfect for beginners, especially if you’re based near Denver and want a taste of the Rockies without getting in over your head.
Whether you’re driving your own 4×4 or just curious what’s out there, these trails offer wide roads, mellow grades, and incredible mountain views — all within a couple hours of Denver. Here are five of the best beginner off-road trails to explore near the Front Range.
1. Switzerland Trail (Near Boulder)
- About 1.5 hours from Denver
This historic railroad route is a Colorado classic. The Switzerland Trail winds through the mountains above Boulder, offering gentle climbs, pine forest, and occasional views that stretch across the Continental Divide. It’s one of the best “first-time” trails because it’s easy to navigate and doesn’t require any technical driving skills.
You’ll get a great mix of history and scenery, and the mellow terrain means it’s suitable for stock 4×4 vehicles with moderate clearance.
Why it’s great for beginners:
No rock crawling or steep drop-offs
Long, relaxing trail with great views
Perfect half-day outing
2. Bunce School Road (Near Allenspark)
- About 1.5 hours from Denver
This forested route offers a fun mix of bumpy sections and open meadows, but nothing too intimidating. It’s wide, relatively short, and perfect for anyone looking to try off-roading for the first time. A cool bonus? You can stop and hike to the T-33 Plane Crash site — a unique piece of local history.
It’s best done in dry conditions and easy to access from Highway 7 near Allenspark.
Why it’s great for beginners:
Fun and scenic without major obstacles
Optional hike to a historic plane crash
Great way to explore the forest without feeling overwhelmed
3. Mammoth Gulch (Near Rollinsville)
- Just over 1 hour from Denver
Mammoth Gulch is a laid-back alpine trail and one of the best easy 4×4 trails near Denver for scenic cruising. It’s mostly a well-maintained dirt road that winds through high-altitude forest and offers plenty of spots to stop and take in the view. The trail connects to other routes if you feel like exploring further, but the main stretch is great for a mellow out-and-back adventure.
It’s also one of the lesser-trafficked trails on this list — ideal if you want a peaceful day in the woods.
Why it’s great for beginners:
Easy terrain and wide road
Quiet and less crowded
Beautiful views and fresh air
4. Pickle Gulch (Near Central City)
- About 1 hour from Denver
Despite the name, this trail is anything but sour. Pickle Gulch is a short, beginner-friendly loop tucked into the forest near Central City. It offers a little bit of everything: mild elevation gain, wide trails, and pretty views. You’ll feel like you’re off the grid without venturing too far from town.
This trail is also popular with overlanders and campers — a great choice if you want to dip your toes into backcountry driving and boondocking.
Why it’s great for beginners:
Easy loop with forest views
Accessible and short
Close to food, fuel, and fun in Central City
5. Devil’s Canyon (Near Idaho Springs)
- Just over 1 hour from Denver
Devil’s Canyon is one of the lesser-known beginner routes near Idaho Springs, making it perfect if you want an off-the-beaten-path feel without technical stress. The road winds through forested terrain with occasional mountain views and light rock features — just enough to be interesting, but not enough to worry about.
It’s a great intro trail that helps build confidence behind the wheel, especially if you’ve never driven on dirt or gravel roads before.
Why it’s great for beginners:
Easy to access but feels remote
Light terrain variety
Great “first drive” option
Pro Tip: Want to Learn Without the Stress?
Whether you’re looking for beginner-friendly adventures or just a few easy 4×4 trails near Denver to explore this weekend, these five picks are a solid place to start. These trails are perfect if you’re driving your own Jeep or 4×4 and want to try something new — but if you’d rather have someone show you the ropes, that’s where we come in.
At Native Jeeps, we offer guided off-road adventures where you do the driving and we lead the way. We’ll teach you trail safety, help you build confidence, and take you on scenic routes (like Yankee Hill or Kingston Peak) that are perfect for beginners — just not on this list.
- Book your Jeep tour today
- You Drive. We Guide. No Weirdos. No Stress.
