Tracy Barker

I drove the majority of Missouri Gulch (up to the intersection of FS Road 347C, between WP 6 and WP 7) on Saturday, March 25th. Our group of six used 347C to cross over to FS Road 351 (because FS Road 348 is included in a temporary closure. Here is the link to the Order: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1085379.pdf The road is in good condition with mixed dry/dirt and packed snow in shaded spots. There is a fallen tree uphill from WP 5 (Concrete Structure) but it has been cleared sufficiently for a full size rig to pass it.

I drove Fern Creek with a small group from Colorado Land Cruisers on Saturday, March 25th. We entered FS Road 351 from the 347C connector and drove it uphill from west to east (ending at Rampart Range Road). There are spots with exposed rock, but none exceeding 12" to 14" so clearance isn't an issue if you select a good line. Overall, the road is in good condition with the surface being mixed dirt/dry and patchy mud and packed snow.

This one has FAR MORE snow than most of the other roads we drove on Rampart Range (346, 347, 347C, and 351) this day, March 25th. Our group of six from Colorado Land Cruisers didn't have any problems, but found that ruts in the snow behave like train tracks--you're just not going to easily steer out of them! The "needle eye" turn-around at the top is exposed to sun, so there is little snow present. This spot is great for camping or just an afternoon outing with friends, a campfire, and some food.

Road conditions are mixed dry and packed snow, with one EXCEPTIONALLY icy spot between WP 3 and WP 4. The ice is thick and covers the entire road surface for a segment exceeding 40 yards in length. What makes it more hazardous is that this segment is bound by a steep incline on one side, and a steep wooded decline on the other side--so imagine it as a shelf road covered in ice (see picture). Aside from this icy section, the road is simple and fun to drive.

I drove The Bank on Sunday, February 26th. I followed the route as described in the guide here. I found the road conditions were mixed--dry on south and west-facing segments, and snowy/muddy on north-facing segments, specifically near Waypoints 6, 7, and 8. Spring weather brings more rain and snow, so I don't expect these areas to dry fully until late April or early May. While this area gets hot (90* or greater) in Summer, the dry conditions make driving more predictable.

I drove north from US Hwy 50 on Sunday, February 26th. The road was mostly clear but muddy in spots south of Waypoint 10. North of that point there was more mud and snow, especially the closer you get to Victor.

I drove Shelf Road from Cripple Creek south to Canon City on Sunday, February 26th. The road has mixed conditions--dry, mud, and snow in different segments depending upon how much direct sunlight a segment gets. Overall, the conditions are good, and the canyon views make this drive worthwhile.

Myself and a small group from Colorado Land Cruisers used CR 69 to get into the Seep Springs area and camp overnight. The road is in good condition, but there are a few short areas that have significant washboard. Aside from that, smooth and easy access to the Seep Springs OHV area.

This was my first time to drive up Mt. Princeton, and it was totally worthwhile. The road is narrow, too narrow for passing traffic in most spots, but there are switchbacks and other spots where one can pull out. These spots seemed more numerous at lower elevations--fewer up high. The stone chalet is a gem--remarkably good condition (please help keep it that way!) Views from the top are spectacular, especially to the SW towards Mount Antero. Just an incredible view!