Top Colorado 4x4 Trails That Make Fall the Best Season p.2

Overview

Can’t get enough of Colorado’s wild autumn? You’re in the right place. In Part 1 of our series we tackled the big-name passes... This time we’re diving deeper... We're going to show you lesser-known 4×4 routes.

But if you’re not in Colorado? That’s fine—our “Underrated Off‑Road Trails With Overrated Risks (And How to Prepare)” post explores remote scenic drives across the U.S. and breaks down what makes them special, risky and how to prep so you’re not axle‑deep in regret.

Fall weather is hard on rigs. That’s why we swear by “5 Essential 4×4 Upgrades Before Fall Trail Season”. It’s your roadmap to steering upgrades, armor checks and bushings that won’t quit. This deep-dive will help you catch the five issues even seasoned drivers overlook. In other words, read it or risk trading offroading in colorado for a roadside repair.

Grab your thermos and sense of humor—we’re about to explore hidden valleys, Aspen tunnels and Colorado scenic byways that didn’t make the first list. And don’t worry: we’ll still talk best scenic drives in Colorado, just with fewer crowds and more breathing room.

  

Aspen Tunnels, Colorado Trail & Twin Cone Gateway

Kenosha Pass, Colorado

• Distance/Time: ~11 miles point-to-point; plan 2–3 hours with photo stops (average speeds 10–20 mph).
• Elevation: Crest at ~10,000 ft; long climbs with rewarding summit views.
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (gravel, occasional ruts, watch for slick corners after rain).
• Vibe: Endless aspen tunnels—arguably one of the most scenic roads in Colorado during peak leaf season.

Why It’s Special & What You Need To Know

Terrain & skills
Kenosha isn’t a technical gauntlet—it’s more of a flowy climb through forest corridors that suddenly burst into big-sky meadows. Eastbound drivers get framed views of South Park; westbound you’re rolling straight into aspen firework displays. The gravel surface is graded most of the season, but washboards and rain-soaked clay can sneak up, so keep throttle smooth and steering light. For folks exploring 4x4 Trails in Colorado for the first time, this is an excellent warm-up without feeling like a Sunday drive.

Rig prep
Any high-clearance SUV or 4x4 can handle Kenosha in dry conditions, but airing down improves comfort and grip. Bring a full-size spare, compressor, and a simple recovery kit. Skids and rock sliders are optional here, but it’s never a bad idea—especially if you’re testing out new Jeep offroad parts or Toyota 4x4 parts. Drivers who’ve just upgraded with Jeep aftermarket bumpers or basic suspension kits will appreciate the added confidence, even if the trail doesn’t demand it.

Season & weather
The prime window hits late September to early October, when golden leaves turn the corridor into a kaleidoscope… This is Colorado during fall at its best: chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and the occasional dusting of early snow. Ice can form in shaded ruts, so mornings deserve extra caution.

Safety notes
Traffic is the real hazard here, not terrain. Weekends draw leaf-peepers by the dozen—pull over to let faster rigs by, and watch for cyclists and hikers crossing near trailheads. If the clay turns slick, take it slow and don’t be afraid to air down further.

Who it suits
Perfect for families, first-timers, and weekend explorers searching “best jeep trails near me”. Dog owners will find plenty of pullouts for safe leg-stretch breaks. Overlanders often link Kenosha into loops that climb into higher basins.

Why this one
Because not every trail has to chew your fenders to make you grin. Kenosha proves that some of the best off road trails in Colorado are also the most beautiful, delivering golden aspen cathedrals without white-knuckle stress.

 

Ridgeline Crest, Photo-Ready Aspens

Shrine Pass Road, Colorado

• Distance/Time: ~12 miles point-to-point; plan 1.5–2 hours with photo and picnic breaks.
• Elevation: Crest at ~11,000 ft; gentle grades, occasional muddy stretches.
• Difficulty: Easy in dry weather; Moderate if wet due to clay and standing puddles.
• Vibe: Golden canopy drive that feels like a secret passage through scenic Colorado; wide-angle views of Mount Holy Cross and glowing ridgelines that beg for a camera.

Why It’s Special & What You Need To Know

Terrain & skills
Shrine Pass Road is one of those Colorado 4x4 off road gems that looks easy on paper yet changes personality with every cloudburst... In the dry, it’s a laid-back dirt road with a few shallow ruts… after rain, it transforms into a slippery clay playground where even mild throttle inputs feel dramatic. The climb from Vail Pass is steady, winding through dense evergreens that break open into postcard-perfect aspen fields. Smooth driving and patience pay off—think of it less as a challenge and more as one of the great drives in Colorado you actually remember for the scenery, not the stress.

Rig prep
Any AWD crossover or 4×4 can handle this route, but traction tires are your friend when the ground’s soaked. Air down slightly for comfort, bring a tow strap just in case, and don’t underestimate how slick wet clay can be. If you’re running 4runner offroad parts or light-duty armor from American made Jeep parts, this is a perfect shakedown run. It’s easy on components yet diverse enough to test steering response, clearance, and your latest Jeep Wrangler JK accessories.

Season & weather
Best between mid-June and early October. The sweet spot hits late September when the aspen canopy goes electric. Typical Colorado during fall conditions mean 30-degree mornings and warm afternoons—pack layers. Afternoon storms roll fast, and the mud that follows can turn this from Sunday cruise to “don’t-scratch-the-paint” mode quickly.

Safety notes
Visibility can drop fast near the crest; keep headlights on even midday. Watch for mountain bikers and UTVs—this is a shared route among CO Jeep trails. If it gets sloppy, avoid braking mid-corner; coast through mud sections with steady throttle.

Who it suits
Perfect for relaxed drivers seeking best trails near me that still feel remote. Families love the picnic pullouts; photographers chase sunrise through fog. It’s also a hit with campers linking overlanding trails toward Camp Hale or Tennessee Pass.

Why this one
Because sometimes the “easy” trails deliver the richest colors. Shrine Pass is proof that best scenic roads in Colorado aren’t always the hardest to reach—it’s a gentle climb to mountain serenity with views made for postcards and tires barely needing a rinse after.

 

Canyon Climb to Alpine Rim, Waterfalls & Big Views

La Plata Canyon → Kennebec Pass, Colorado

• Distance/Time: ~14 miles one way; plan 3–4 hours with photo and cooling stops.
• Elevation: Tops near 12,000 ft; long, steady climb with sharp switchbacks above tree line.
• Difficulty: Moderate (loose rock, steep grades, and exposed corners past the waterfalls).
• Vibe: A “choose-your-own-pace” adventure—part waterfall tour, part alpine finale. Think Durango’s wild backyard meets scenic routes in Colorado worthy of a postcard.

Why It’s Special & What You Need To Know

Terrain & skills
Few 4 wheel trails Colorado pack this much drama into such a short distance. The lower canyon starts as a mellow dirt road lined with aspens and mining remnants… halfway up, the switchbacks tighten, the cliffs rise, and waterfalls crash beside the trail. Past Columbus Basin, the terrain turns rugged, and momentum management becomes everything. You’ll use low range early and often—this is classic Colorado four wheel drive trails country. The last climb to Kennebec Pass rewards you with views that stretch all the way to the La Platas’ glacial bowls and the San Juans beyond.

Rig prep
High-clearance rigs are a must here. Air down, pack a compressor, and check your brakes before you start descending. A basic recovery kit is smart insurance—one rainstorm can change everything. Trail veterans often use this route to test suspension tuning or new Jeep Wrangler JL parts and Toyota 4runner accessories. Armor under your rig isn’t overkill here, and drivers running best Jeep aftermarket parts or heavy-duty shocks know why once the rocks start popping.

Season & weather
Expect the window from late June through mid-October, depending on snowpack. Early fall means golden aspens and chill mornings… late fall means possible snow squalls. This route shows off Colorado scenic drives at their boldest — sunlight pouring through waterfalls, thunder echoing off canyon walls, and a summit breeze that tastes like snow.

Safety notes
The canyon can flash flood after storms—don’t underestimate it. Carry comms, stay in 4-Lo on steep grades, and watch for ATVs flying downhill. It’s also one of those Colorado jeep trails where you’ll want to spot each other on the tighter ledges.

Who it suits
Experienced intermediates, adventure photographers, and dog owners hunting dog friendly trails near me. Great for those who enjoy both the drive and the hike at the top—there’s a short spur to overlook the basin.

Why this one
Because it’s a condensed version of Colorado’s entire off-road personality: waterfalls, mining ghosts, alpine ridgelines, and enough challenge to keep your pulse up. Among best drives in Colorado, this one delivers the kind of day that makes you fall in love with your rig all over again.

 

Ghost Towns, Mirror Lake Glow, Classic Divide Crossing

Tincup Pass, Colorado

• Distance/Time: ~12 miles one way; plan 3–4 hours with scenic and photo breaks.
• Elevation: Summit around 12,154 ft; high-altitude crossing of the Continental Divide.
• Difficulty: Moderate–Difficult (loose rock, steep switchbacks, narrow shelves).
• Vibe: Vintage mining history meets alpine drama—rusted cabins, icy lakes, and a climb that feels like driving into a time capsule of scenic places in Colorado.

Why It’s Special & What You Need To Know

Terrain & skills
This isn’t a casual dirt cruise. Tincup starts gently from St. Elmo, but soon the rocks turn fist-sized and the air thins... You’ll weave past crumbling mine relics, cross small streams, and climb switchbacks that deliver the kind of scenery you’ll brag about for years. On classic Colorado 4 wheel drive trails like this, throttle control and patience matter more than horsepower. The descent toward Mirror Lake is a mosaic of boulders, roots, and reflections—the trail rewards smooth line choice and calm steering.

Rig prep
A high-clearance 4×4 with low range is non-negotiable here. Air down early, bring a compressor, and double-check your recovery points. Skid plates, rock sliders, and strong steering gear make the difference between “fun workout” and “trail repair session.” If you’re running Jeep Wrangler JK parts or Jeep Wrangler TJ accessories, you’ll appreciate how they handle the chatter. Toyota drivers dialing their Toyota 4runner parts or suspension kits can test clearance and articulation here—it’s an ideal real-world proving ground for best Jeep aftermarket parts.

Season & weather
Open roughly July through mid-October, depending on snowpack… Expect crisp mornings, dust clouds, and the occasional patch of snow even in late summer. Autumn here glows—gold aspen lower down, ice-blue shimmer above Mirror Lake. It’s a highlight for anyone chasing fall in Colorado vibes across the high country.

Safety notes
Be ready for sudden temperature drops and slippery rock surfaces if it rains. Uphill rigs have right of way—find safe turnouts. And remember: it’s remote. No services, no cell signal—carry gear and let someone know your route.

Who it suits
Adventure seekers who like their trails with a side of history… Great for couples or small groups exploring dog friendly trails near me — just keep pups leashed near steep edges. Overlanders love camping near Mirror Lake; Jeep and Toyota owners call it one of the best jeep trails in Colorado for a reason.

Why this one
Because it captures everything great about the Rockies—ghost towns, alpine grit, and sunsets that look painted by firelight. Among Colorado fall activities, few drives feel this cinematic or this earned.

 

Cimarron Spires, Huge Color, Low-Stress Dirt Road

Owl Creek Pass, Colorado

• Distance/Time: ~26 miles one way; plan 2–3 hours with stops and photos.
• Elevation: Summit ~10,114 ft; consistent climb with mild grades.
• Difficulty: Easy (graded dirt with occasional ruts and washboard).
• Vibe: Think cinematic Colorado—towering Cimarron spires, flaming aspens, and peace you can actually hear.

Why It’s Special & What You Need To Know

Terrain & skills
Owl Creek Pass isn’t about testing limits; it’s about enjoying the kind of landscape that made filmmakers swoon (this is where True Grit was filmed). The dirt road winds gently through meadows and aspen forests before revealing jaw-dropping views of the Cimarron Needles. On most best Jeep trails in Colorado, you’re gripping the wheel—here, you’re holding a camera. Ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a break from boulder hopping, it’s a pure “windows down, thermos up” kind of drive.

Rig prep
Any AWD or 4×4 handles this one easily, but airing down smooths out washboard. It’s the perfect trail to stretch the legs of your daily driver outfitted with mild upgrades—maybe testing those new JLU accessories or Jeep Wrangler JL accessories on a relaxed route. Toyota fans often run this road to break in their Toyota 4runner aftermarket parts or to see how best 4runner accessories perform on extended dirt. This isn’t a “must-have-skids” zone, but a light bumper or brush guard never hurts.

Season & weather
Typically open June through mid-October. Late September is magic—the aspens glow neon gold under bluebird skies. Occasional rain adds drama without much danger, though the upper flats can get slick. This is one of those Toyota parts and accessories dream routes: scenic, gentle, and rewarding without a scratch.

Safety notes
Visibility can drop fast during storms, and elk crossings are common. Keep your lights on, and give way to locals hauling trailers or cattle trucks—this is ranch country.

Who it suits
Families, photographers, overlanders linking loops, and anyone needing a mental reset. It’s also great for those exploring scenic places in Colorado with dogs—gentle grades, endless pullouts, and no rock gardens to worry about.

Why this one
Because Owl Creek Pass feels like a deep breath. Among Colorado’s quiet classics, it’s the rare trail that delivers big color, huge views, and zero stress—all the reasons we love Toyota truck parts and accessories and smooth gravel roads that don’t demand recovery gear.

 

How To Prepare For These 4x4 Trails

Before you roll down the dirt, let me drop a truth: the difference between a legendary trail day and a long, cursed walk back to the truck usually lies in how you prep. That’s why this section isn’t just optional fluff—it’s the foundation that lets you enjoy every canyon, shelf, and summit without surprise breakdowns.

First up: gear and deals. Check out our Best Deals collection—especially when fall deals hit on off-road essentials like recovery gear, skid plates, lighting kits, and durable tires. It’s the time to invest before you’re staring at a blown hose on a ridge.

For the full catalog—from vehicles to camping accessories—link into the main Mountain Offroad Collections.

Lastly, anchor your parts philosophy: read “Buying American-Made Off-Road Parts”. It’s not just patriotic — it’s practical. Weld quality, bolt standards, heavy-steel specs and cold-climate durability matter when you’re pushing through rocks and freeze-thaw cycles. That guide gives you the reasoning (and confidence) behind upgrading properly.

 

Final Thoughts

If you like to double-check lines and closures before you roll, two solid references to keep in your back pocket are onX Offroad and Trails Offroad. Mentioned here for completeness, they’re handy for cross-checking conditions, but the plan above will already get you set for a smooth day.

That’s a wrap on Part 2. Pack smart, start early, leave room for weather and photo stops, and give other trail users the same courtesy you want back. We’ll see you out there—where engines are quiet, colors are loud, and the day feels earned.