Red Cone

Grant, Co. | Park County

Trail Status: Closed

Trail Highlights

Red Cone is truly a gem among Colorado’s off-road trails and a bucket-list adventure for off-road enthusiasts. Known for its thrilling terrain, this trail offers a unique combination of steep climbs, breathtaking scenery, and an adrenaline-pumping descent that serves as a rite of passage for both locals and visitors.

As you make your way up, you’ll traverse dense forests, gradually emerging above the treeline to experience sweeping panoramic views that few trails can match. Reaching Red Cone Peak at 12,801 feet, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping vistas that truly take your breath away—both figuratively and literally!

The trail’s infamous steep downhill section near the summit can reach decent angles of 27+ degrees and is a heart-pounding highlight, requiring both confidence and skill to navigate safely. Beyond the thrill, wildlife sightings are common, with a high chance of spotting mountain goats gracefully navigating the rugged terrain.

Trail Details

Trail Directions: Google Maps

Difficult Average Duration4 Hours

Things To Consider

Open June – Nov. (In light snow season)
One-way after the summit
Altitude sickness is possible drink lots of water
The trail can get very busy Sat/Sunday Mornings
Snow can persist and cause closures late in June
The downhill section is challenging
Close to Denver, Colorado

TRAIL NOTE** STEEP DOWNHILL – Always travel this section in 4 Low locked in 1st gear. DO NOT SLAM ON BREAKS! If you feel slipping apply light throttle, DO NOT BREAK HARD.

Red Cone Interactive Trail Map

Download Red Cone GPX

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Can My Vehicle Complete Red Cone?

Check the chart below to get our recommendations on which vehicle type would be best suited for this trail! Please always be safe and remember just because “it’s possible” doesn’t mean you should. Don’t wheel past your limits, travel with others and ALWAYS “Stay the Trail”.

Small Offroad SUV

Not recommended

Large Gate Keeper Rock

Offroad SUV

Not recommended

Low chance of getting past gate keeper

High Clearance SUV

Use Caution

Scrapping on Gate Keeper
May have to winch over

Modified Offroad Vehicle

It’s not a breeze, but you’ll make it!

May take harder lines as desired
Help others when possible

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Camping on Red Cone

Some Availability Rooftop Tent Best Tent Camping

There are a few offtrail campsites located on and around the area of Red Cone, most of these sites are best suited for having a rooftop tent but it is possible to setup small tents in certain areas. Please note camping is not allowed at the staging area for Red Cone or Webster Pass.

Campgrounds Near Red Cone

Official Trail Guide: Barely Made It

Barely Made It Offroad Youtube channel art

We’re Chris and Christian and our channel is dedicated to making memories through the adventure of offroading. So please join us on our journeys and let us know where you’d like us to go next!

Watch on Youtube Visit on Instagram

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Attractions

Buena Vista, Colorado group of tourists white water rafting

Feed Chipmunks at Sapphire Point Overlook

Just 12 miles from Montezuma, driving around the Dillon Reservoir, lies Sapphire Point Overlook, offering breathtaking views and a fun stop for the kids to watch—and maybe even sneak a treat to—the friendly local chipmunks.

Google Maps

Raven Golf Club - Silverthorn

Only 16 miles from Montezuma Colorado, the Raven Golf Club is the perfect spot to play a round of golf with some of the best views on any course in America!

Book A Tee Time | Visit The Website

Noahs Ark adventure park buena vista colorado kids playing at adventure park

Cutthroat Anglers - Fly Fishing

Silverthorne, Colorado, offers world-class fly fishing with pristine waters teeming with trout. The Blue River, a Gold Medal fishery, is a must-visit for anglers of all skill levels. Stop by Cutthroat Anglers for expert advice, gear, and guided trips to ensure an unforgettable fishing experience in the Rockies!

Cutthroat Anglers

Dillon Reservoir - Scenic Destination

Nestled in the heart of Summit County, Dillon Reservoir is a scenic alpine gem offering endless outdoor recreation. Originally built to supply water to Denver, this expansive lake has become a premier destination for boating, fishing, and sailing enthusiasts.

Google Maps – Dillon Reservoir

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Restaurants

Steep Brewing & Coffee Keystone | 6mi From Montezuma

Steep offers expertly crafted beer, coffee, and cocktails in a warm, welcoming space—perfect for fueling up or unwinding after your mountain adventures!

Google Maps

Dog Friendly

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

City On A Hill Coffee house Leadville Colorado

Last Chance Pizza & Sandwich Company | 9mi From Montezuma

Last Chance serves up fresh, high-quality New York-style thin-crust pizza with all-natural ingredients in a friendly, local atmosphere—worth the trip every time!

Google Maps | Menu

Dog Friendly Patio

Lunch

Dinner

Wesley and Rose Buena Vista Colorado Restaurant

Bistro North | 12mi From Montezuma

Offering a truly unforgettable dining experience where chef-driven modern-American cuisine, Bistro North has expertly crafted cocktails, and a thoughtfully curated wine selection that comes together in a warm and inviting atmosphere in the heart of Dillon, Colorado.

Google Maps | Bistro North Dillion

Brunch

Lunch

Dinner

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Hotels

Kenosha Lodge | 8 Mi to Trail

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Kenosha Lodge offers a cozy and rustic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. With easy access to hiking, fishing, and the breathtaking Kenosha Pass, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty.

Google Maps Link | Hotel Website Link

Bailey Lodge | 16Mi to Trail

Situated in the charming town of Bailey, Colorado, Bailey Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with stunning mountain views. Perfect for outdoor adventurers, the lodge provides easy access to hiking, fishing, and exploring the beautiful South Platte River area.

Google Maps Link | Hotel Website Link

Two Bridges Lodge | 18Mi to Trail

Located along the scenic North Fork of the South Platte River, Two Bridges Lodge offers a peaceful getaway surrounded by Colorado’s natural beauty. Ideal for fishing, hiking, and relaxing in the great outdoors, this lodge provides a comfortable retreat with breathtaking views.

Google Maps Link | Hotel Website Link

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