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Colorado Trail Spotlight: Best Late-Season High Country & Low-Elevation Runs Before the Snow Closes Them

Published by 5280 Offroad

Born at elevation. Forged in mud. Grit is earned.

5280 offroad Colorado late season 4x4 trails

Alright, 5280 Offroad Tribe the clock is ticking, and the trails won’t wait. By mid-October, we’re staring down the final window before Colorado’s high-country gates swing shut. The aspens have dropped their last leaves, the air has that sharp bite, and every weather forecast could be the one that ends your alpine season for good.


This isn’t the weekend to “think about going” this is the weekend to load up, fire up the rig, and chase those Colorado late season 4x4 trails.. Whether you’re aiming high for frosted summits or staying lower where the sun still warms the dirt, this is your last call to make memories before winter takes over.


We here at 5280 live and breathe Colorado’s wheeling season, and we’ve experienced both extremes of October firsthand. One year, we were chasing sunshine across high ridgelines, our breath turning to steam as the wind cut sharp through the alpine air. The very next weekend, that same route was buried under a foot of fresh snow. Another fall, we spent a crisp blue-sky day crawling dry rock at lower elevation, with only a light frost in the shaded creek beds. Same month. Two completely different rides. That’s the magic and the gamble of October off-roading.


Here’s your go-now list for late-season Colorado trails, from the highest passes still clinging to accessibility to the lower-elevation routes that buy you a few more weekends of dirt before winter locks them down.

High-Country “Last Call” Runs


Webster Pass & Red Cone Loop

By mid-October, Webster Pass is often down to its final days before the Forest Service gates close typically late October, weather permitting. This loop delivers a one-of-a-kind experience: a crisp alpine climb with peaks frosted in snow, followed by Red Cone’s adrenaline-spiking one-way descent.

  • Why Go Now: You get that dramatic late-season scenery without the deep snow that shuts the route down for winter.

  • Trail Tip: Watch for ice on the north-facing drop into Montezuma, and keep your eyes peeled for fallen branches from early storms.


Argentine Pass

This 13,000-plus-foot pass usually stays open into mid- or even late October if storms hold off, though heavy snow can close it with little warning. October runs mean thinner air, fewer crowds, and that surreal feeling of standing on the Divide as winter creeps in.

  1. Why Go Now: It’s a high-altitude history lesson, with mining relics and unmatched views and you may have the summit all to yourself.

  2. Trail Tip: Even with dry skies, shaded switchbacks can hold slick spots. A steady climb in low range is your friend here.


Mosquito Pass

Known as one of Colorado’s highest and roughest through-routes, Mosquito typically closes earlier than the others sometimes by early October but in lighter snow years you can still catch a late-season run mid-month. If the gates are open, it’s a gift.

  1. Why Go Now: Remote, rugged, and raw it’s the kind of alpine terrain that leaves you grinning and your camera full.

  2. Trail Tip: Start early to avoid rapidly changing weather, and be ready for wind and snowdrifts near the summit.

Lower-Elevation Late-Season Favorites

These trails dodge early snow and summit closures, giving you more breathing room before winter wheeling kicks in.


China Wall (Lake George)

Open until December 31, China Wall is a lower-elevation classic that stays accessible long after the alpine passes close. By mid-October, the aspens are bare, the mornings are frosty, and the rock gardens feel a little more technical thanks to freeze–thaw cycles.

  • Why Go Now: It’s a chance to work on your obstacle-picking and traction skills without worrying about snow-blocked access.

  • Trail Tip: Expect slick mud in shaded sections throttle control is key.


Kelly Flats (Fort Collins Area)

Kelly Flats is open until November 20, giving you another month of access past the high-country cut-off. Late-season runs here add a bit of spice: Heart-Attack Hill gets even more intense when there’s frost on the rock, and The Chutes demand precise tire placement.

  • Why Go Now: It’s a technical driver’s playground with enough challenge to keep veterans engaged.

  • Trail Tip: Air down more than usual for traction on icy granite and wet soil.


Metberry Gulch

With no formal seasonal closure, Metberry stays in play well into the cold months though snow or ice at the creek crossing can start to show up by late October. Its mix of rocky sections, sweeping views, and mild technical challenges make it a great season-ender.

  • Why Go Now: You can wrap your wheeling season with a satisfying run that doesn’t require battling alpine weather.

  • Trail Tip: Mornings can be icy at the crossing, so plan your day to hit it after the sun’s been up awhile.

Late-Season Wheeling Tips

  • Check Conditions First: Our Colorado 4x4 Trail Report is your go-to for real-time updates before you leave.

  • Start Early: Even at lower elevations, October storms can hit by mid-afternoon.

  • Dress in Layers: Temps can swing 30°F or more between the trailhead and your highest point.

  • Have a Backup Plan: Know alternate routes or turnaround points in case of sudden closures or weather shifts.


Your Season’s Final Window

This is it. In just a few short weeks, snowpack, ice, and locked gates will turn these runs into memories until next summer. If you’ve been putting off that one last adventure, now isn’t the time to wait it’s the time to go. Whether you want the drama of a frosted summit or the quiet satisfaction of a crisp lower-elevation crawl, the trails are open now… but they won’t be for long.


Go earn that grit before winter takes the wheel.

Ready to Explore Beyond Limits?

Feeling inspired but want to sharpen your skills before hitting more challenging routes? Explore our 5280 Offroad Training Programs – from basic vehicle operation to advanced techniques, we'll give you the confidence to tackle any terrain. And while you're planning your next adventure, gear up at the 5280 Offroad Shop  – our merchandise is built rugged and trail-tested, just like the adventures you're about to embark on.


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