Shaeffer Dam Loop - BLM#6102K

Trail Overview

Penrose Commons OHV Trail# 6102K is the easternmost trail of the Penrose Commons OHV recreational site. Majority of the trail traverses along the top edge of a valley overlooking the scenic cliffs of Patton Canyon and Beaver Creek. This is a site of the historic Schaeffer Dam collapse in June 1921 where heavy rains caused a crack in the dam's foundation that led to its subsequent collapse, releasing massive amounts of water and flooding the towns of Penrose and Pueblo, Colorado. Ruins of the dam's control tower are visible from a lookout along the trail. There are a couple of steep ledges up to 12" and narrow sections with tree branches that risk some light pin-striping. Penrose Commons offers dispersed camping, vault toilets, decent cell service, and a spacious staging area at the trailhead. The trails are also used for ATVs, dirt bikes, and horseback riding. It's open year-round but is subject to closure during wet weather conditions.