What
to expect
Iron Chest is a classic hardcore four-wheeling day of fun.
I hesitated at first to use the word “hardcore’ since
today’s standards have changed so much, but the reality is
that this trail can be very challenging.
The first mile of the trail is like liquid rocks.
The huge boulders move constantly underneath your rig. The trail
changes from one vehicle to the next. The line that you just took
simply may no longer be there when your friend comes up right
behind. The boulders don’t really go anywhere; they just
rearrange themselves constantly within the confines of the trail.
The trail climbs above the tree line where you
will find ruins of the mining era and spectacular views. As the
trail rises in elevation it gets even more narrow and steep. At
times you will look over the end of your hood and swear that the
ledge is narrower than your rig. I would not recommend full-size
vehicles on this trail. While this trail caters a little more
toward the hard side of four-wheeling, it can be done with good
driving skills and a moderately-equipped rig. High ground clearance
and lockers make a huge difference on this trail.
Where to find the trail and how to get
there?
The trail is about two hours southwest of Denver, Colorado near
Buena Vista. Take 285 West through Buena Vista toward Nathrop.
There, you will turn west on Rt. 162. It is about 15 miles from
there to Hancock Road 295.Turn left there and look for a small
parking area in the next half mile. That is the trailhead.
Trailhead GPS
N 38 40.914
W106 20.845