Shelf Road, Phantom Canyon

Shelf Road, Phantom Canyon

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Shelf Road, Phantom Canyon
Shelf Road, Phantom Canyon
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Distance

60.5 mi

Technical Rating

3 Easy

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Type

High-Clearance 4x4 Trail

Accessible By

Trail Overview

This is a heavily used network of trails that starts just south of Cripple Creek. A former stage coach route, Shelf Road takes you on a ride through history with old mines and ghost towns. A number of 4X4 roads leave from Shelf Road west of Sand Gulch Campground, and near The Banks Campground, one of the most popular climbing areas in Colorado. This is a steep, rugged ride. Make sure to visit Red Canyon Park for the unique red rocks. Unlicensed vehicles may ride on the side roads, but are not allowed on the main loop.

Weather

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Status Reports

Matt Heckroth
Oct 18, 2024
4x4
Open
Normal
Muddy/Wet
Washboard
I did the trail on a ADV bike. West side of the trail is a bit more difficult - East side is pretty much a scenic drive and can be done by most AWD vehicles. Northeast end was pretty muddy and I was sliding around.
Barney Royalty
Sep 08, 2024
2024 Subaru Outback
Open
Normal
Washboard
Took it from Cripple Creek down to Canon City. The obstruction reported last August has been removed so the road is clear again.
Kim Villarreal
Aug 14, 2024
4x4
Obstructed
Washout
Shelf Road just north of Helena Gulch. Upper rocks gave way in that weather we had Tuesday. As far as I know Phantom Canyon is still open.
Bill Craig
Aug 12, 2024
2014 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Normal
Washboard
The road was dry but not dusty. Lots of washboard with occasional potholes and erosion ruts. We drove from US50 to Victor (counterclockwise on the Phantom/Shelf loop) which seems the way most traffic went. Just a few cars plus a number of dirt bikes. The road could be driven in 2WD but I used 4WD because the Jeep handles better on the loose gravel in 4WD.

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