The Best Jeep Trails in Colorado – From Denver to Aspen
Colorado is home to some of the most thrilling, scenic, and historic Jeep trails in the U.S. Whether you’re visiting for the summer or a local looking for something new, we’ve rounded up the top off-road routes across the state — from beginner-friendly to hardcore.
These are real Jeep trails — not paved scenic drives. Many of them follow old mining roads, narrow-gauge railways, or high-mountain passes that climb above 13,000 feet. And the best part? You can drive some of these yourself with Native Jeeps guided tours.
Best Jeep Trail Near Denver
Argentine Pass / McClellan Mountain – Georgetown, CO
Just under an hour from Denver, Argentine Pass and McClellan Mountain top our list. This high-altitude route offers incredible views, mining history, and easy access from I-70.
Elevation: 13,176 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Views of Grays and Torreys Peaks, Waldorf town site ruins, historic railbed trail
Fun Fact: Argentine Pass was once a toll road to the Breckenridge gold fields
Want to drive this trail yourself? Book a YOU-drive Jeep tour near Denver
After your ride, grab a beer and a bite at Cabin Creek Brewing in Georgetown, right on the lake.
Best Jeep Trails Near Ski Towns
Colorado’s ski towns have some great trail opportunities in the summer, so if you are visiting in the right season you will want to check out:
Telluride: Black Bear Pass
Known for its death-defying switchbacks and breathtaking views, Black Bear Pass is legendary. Only for the brave.
Difficulty: High (cliffside switchbacks)
Best For: Experienced drivers, thrill-seekers
Tip: Rentals are available in Telluride, but go with a guide if you’re unsure
This thrilling adventure is one you will never forget. Jeep rentals are available in the area, and the route-finding is pretty easy – so the everyday (gutsy) adventurer can tackle this trail and see the amazing views it has to offer.
Known for it’s death-defying switchbacks on the sides of thousand foot cliffs, Black Bear Pass is as “exposed” as most people want to get. Ever. In a Jeep. A Jeep Badge of Honor Trail is mostly considered easy to moderate, if it weren’t for the deadly cliffs inches from your tires.
Vail: Holy Cross Trail
Just outside of Red Cliff, Holy Cross is a Jeep Badge of Honor trail and one of the toughest in Eagle County.
Difficulty: Very High
Highlights: Historic cabins, Gold Park cemetery, French Creek obstacle
Note: Busy on weekends. Expect waits at major obstacles.
Trail info: Holy Cross Trail on Forest Service Maps
Prefer a more scenic ride? Book our Vail full-day Jeep tour
See what else to do in the area:
Breckenridge: Peak 9 & 10 Trail
Right beneath the ski lifts, this route offers wildflowers, alpine views, and real exposure as you climb.
Difficulty: Moderate to High
Highlights: Briar Rose Mine, switchbacks, chairlift views
Season Note: Breck ski resort stays open into June. Wait for the melt.
Aspen: Montezuma Basin to Pearl Pass
This combo route starts above Aspen and drops into Crested Butte through some of Colorado’s most rugged alpine terrain.
Difficulty: High
Road Type: Narrow, rocky, historic mining route
Best For: Experienced drivers with lifted rigs
Best Hardcore Jeep Trail in Colorado
Carnage Canyon – Buena Vista
True to its name, Carnage Canyon is not for the faint of heart (or light of tire). This trail breaks rigs.
Difficulty: Extreme
Highlights: Giant boulders, off-camber lines, constant obstacles
Best For: Rock-crawlers, built rigs only
Tip: Bring a winch. And a friend.
Jeep, ATV and SxS rentals are available in the area. If you go, don’t miss the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs where you can relax after a hard fought day on trail!
Want to Drive These Trails Without the Guesswork?
Instead of renting a Jeep and risking it alone, try a YOU-drive Jeep tour with Native Jeeps. We provide the trail-ready Jeep, expert local guidance, and unforgettable views — no experience required.
Fully built Jeeps
Real off-road trails (not dirt roads)
YOU drive — we guide
Based in Idaho Springs and Vail
