Directions: From Denver take Hwy 285 west past Grant about 5 miles to County Road 60 which will be on your right. There's plenty of space to air down and meet up after getting on to CR60. Follow CR60 to the trail following well-marked signs. After starting on the trail you'll take a quick right on FSR 565 to reach Red Cone.

Red Cone isn't as difficult a trail as many people make it out to be but it's not easy either. The trail leading to the Red Cone ascent has some challenges and loose rock that can, and will, cause trouble for some stock 4x4's. There are some narrow sections, tight switchbacks, larger rocks and some tippy moments that may concern the novice. It can be done in any stock 4x4 with low gear and an experienced spotter.







The biggest attraction to this trail is the ascent and descent of Red Cone itself. Both going up and coming down appear to be quite steep since they are but as is typical look worse than they actually are. The key to the climb is to maintain momentum to keep your wheels from spinning. The ascent is actually 3 climbs separated by some level trail which allows for groups to gather as each ascent is completed.





The final climb to the top is the steepest and the most rewarding due to the spectacular views from the top. There's quite a bit of room at the top so a dozen trucks can all fit easily there for the requisite photos. The key to the descent, which most people find very intimidating, is to take it slow and controlled.





This is not the place you'd want to start slipping and sliding since there's very little room to recover and nowhere but down to go. The drops off the sides are steep, dangerous and going over the edge probably life ending. If you do happen to find your rear sliding as it tries to catch up to your front gently apply some throttle, do not hit the brakes as this will increase the slide. This is a trail to relax and enjoy the scenery. The descent is really a couple steep drops with the first being the steeper and most dramatic.



Always make sure you leave plenty of room for the trucks following yours at the base or top, nobody likes having to stop at those angles because someone ahead is happily snapping photos.

From the base of the final descent you can to the right to take Radical Hill which is easily visible or wind your way to Montezuma and pavement. Leading to Montezuma also bring you to Deer Creek Trail and Saints John Trail to continue on nearby trails. Going left will take you to Webster Pass which is closed as of the writing.