Farwell Mountain via Lost Dog

Long, rough trail across mountain range east of Hans Peak.

The trail starts with a gentle climb through an area called Lost Dog. Although, beetle kill, forest fires and a major blow down event in 1997 have ravaged the landscape, the drive remains very exciting. Everything changes after a bridge crossing at 6.1 miles. Here, the trail narrows and begins a fun, twisting climb to the top of Farwell Mountain. A great area for ATVs and dirt bikes, which can head north on Diamond Park Trail at Waypoint 03 to create a giant loop through Big Red Park and back to Hahns Peak. Open July 1 to Dec. 1, weather permitting.

Mostly moderate, but several steep rocky climbs push the overall rating to difficult. We drove the route in early July and encountered mud, fallen trees, and deep snow banks. An aggressive, high-clearance SUV with skilled driver can do it when dry.