Getaways offer great experiences for those with little time

By Liam Easley

The Front Range is home to many off-roading locations, and there are interesting sights to take in beyond just mountains and nature. Trails will take visitors to ghost towns, abandoned mines or other structures left by Colorado’s earliest settlers. Before you hit the road, check around the web to make sure the trails are open.

Oh-My-God Road

Forty minutes west of Denver in the middle of Idaho Springs is Virginia Canyon Road, otherwise known as Oh-My-God Road because of its drop-offs and sharp turns. AllTrails says to take Two Brothers Road, but word of mouth says to turn right and stay on Virginia Canyon Road for the best results. This trail is said to be avoided by the faint of heart.

Devil’s Canyon

Also in Idaho Springs, this trail opens to OHV (off-highway vehicle) traffic every year on June 16, and it remains closed for more than half the year in order to limit disturbances to elk as they raise their newborns. Located 40 minutes from Denver, this trail offers a lot of remarkable views as well as plenty of sights for the nature-lover. For more information, visit the Forest Service website.

Russell Gulch

It takes less than 50 minutes to reach one of the most recently constructed trails near Denver, and it contains a ghost town at an elevation of 9,100 feet. Once a thriving mining town, only a few buildings still stand of the original Russell Gulch, including a mule barn, a brick schoolhouse and some mining sites. There is a lot of history behind the town, and it would be beneficial to learn more about the area before you head up.

Argentine Pass

An hour and a half west of Denver is Argentine Pass near Dillon. Originally a wagon trail built in 1867, this trail connects to Argentine and Waldorf, two ghost towns that comprise the main attractions for this adventure. Additionally, Argentine Pass will take you past a couple of abandoned mines that were once active alongside the towns.

Rainbow Falls

For weekend warriors, Rainbow Falls near Sedalia is the perfect fit and it’s an hour and 40 minutes southwest of Denver. Currently only open on weekends, the trail features OHV compatibility but be sure to bring your binoculars. The area provides a great habitat for a variety of birds. It’s named for the beautiful waterfalls found in the area. For more information, visit the Forest Service website.

Coney Flats

Two hours northwest of Denver is Coney Flats west of Ward, an OHV road that leads to the Coney Flats Trailhead. The area offers dramatic views and is heavily used by experienced four-wheel enthusiasts. For more information, visit the Forest Service website.

Liam Easley is a Wartburg College student studying journalism and communication. He will graduate in 2021. Liam also enjoys writing poetry, screenplays, short stories and music.