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Beyond the Pavement: Trails That Will Take Your Breath Away

The open road is nice, but the real adventure begins when the pavement ends. If you are itching for fresh air, mussy tires, and climbs that will take your breath away, these are five Jeep trails to get your adventure started. Whether you are a first time off-roader or a seasoned trail finder, each one offers its own mix of challenge, scenery, and adventure!

Trail Name

Difficulty

Length (miles)

Best Season

Key Features

Star Review

The Gemini Bridges Trail

Easy

13.2

Spring & Fall

Gemini Bridges

4.7

Black Bear Pass

Hard

10

June - October

Bridal Veil Falls

4.7

Rubicon Trail

Extreme

18.2

Summer

Loon Lake

4.5

Black Hills National Forest

Moderate

22.9

June – September

Scenic viewpoints & water sources

4.5

Naches Pass Trail

Hard

13.3

May – August

Creek crossings

4.4

(all information can be found on alltrails.com)

 The Gemini Bridges Trail

Location: Utah - near Arches National Park
Length: 13.2 mi. & 1,938ft. elevation gain (point to point)
Difficulty: Easy
Best Season: Spring and Fall
Features: The two Gemini Bridges – two natural arches side-by-side
Trail Description: This is an easy off-roading trail with only one steep hill that requires four-wheel drive. On this trail you will see the Gemini Bridges below you, and to see the bridges from below you can take the Bull Canyon Trail.

Black Bear Pass

Location: Colorado - Uncompahgre National Forest
Length: 10 mi. & 1,843ft. elevation gain (point to point)
Difficulty: Hard
Best Season: June through September
Features: Bridal Veil Falls
Trail Description: This trail starts in Silverton, CO and ends in Telluride. The switchbacks above the falls are one-way downhill so once you start, you cannot return. Because of this, your off-road vehicle should have good breaks, amazing articulation, and a FULLY functional emergency brake.

Rubicon Trail

Location: California – Eldorado National Forest
Length: 18.2 mi. & 2,080ft. elevation gain (point to point)
Best Season: Summer
Difficulty: Extreme
Features: Loon Lake and Loon Lake Main Dam
Trail Description: This trail is known for its challenging terrain, steep climbs, and rocky sections. It is a combination of difficulty, beauty, and rock-crawling pleasures!

Blue Trail, Bear Den Mountain, and Blue Creek OHV Loop

Location: South Dakota – Black Hills National Forest
Length: 22.9 mi. & 3,874ft. elevation gain (loop)
Best Season: June to September
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: Scenic viewpoints and water sources
Trail Description: Rocky off-roading full of wildlife and amazing views!

 

Naches Pass Trail

Location: Washington – Cascade Mountains
Length: 11mi. & 2,749ft. elevation gain (out & back)
Best Season: June through October
Difficulty: Hard
Features: Creek crossings
Trail Description: This trail is popular for off-roading, hiking, and mountain biking with challenging terrain, old-growth forests, and off-camber sections.

Five trails and endless possibilities! Whether you tackle one or try them all, each mile is another story worth telling. With the right trail and the correct preparations, your next trip can be your best yet. The trails may end, but the adventure never does. Pack your gear, fuel up, and let the dirt roads lead the way!

 

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