INTRODUCTION
A scenic graded dirt road that twists its way around the forests north of Vail for 11 miles to Piney River Ranch and Piney Lake, a great location for fishing, hiking, canoeing... anything! The road is frequently wash boarded and in the summer can become quite dusty. There are many spurs off of this road, including Red and White, Lost Lake, and more. Most of the spurs are considerably more difficult to travel, and require the use of four wheel drive TRAIL TIPS
This road is HEAVILY traveled, and many drivers, bikers, and hikers go too fast. Watch for on coming traffic!! There are many terrific campsites in this area, but they fill up quickly! Please camp only in designated areas.
Directions from Vail: From the main Vail interchange, travel west on North Frontage road for 1 mile. You'll see a sign on the right side of the road marked "Piney Lake/Red Sandstone Road". Turn right at the sign. At 3/10 of a mile from the turn-off follow the road to the right as it makes a hairpin turn and continues up the mountain. At 6/10 of a mile from the turn-off, you'll see a sign for Piney River Ranch at the beginning of a dirt road.Follow this main dirt road. At 10 miles from the start of the dirt road, you'll cross a creek and "rest area" with campsites. The road forks here, and is narrower. Follow the right fork, and continue one mile to the ranch parking area. Return the way you came.
Seasonal Information:
Best Fall Colors:
Mid-September through Late September
(NOTE: The season varies from year to year. Dependent upon weather conditions. Hot Summer days and cool nights just above freezing bring spectacular display of color)
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Normally Accessible:
Summer through Fall
(NOTE: Seasons vary depending on snow depth)
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Best Fall Color:
Mid-September through Late September
(NOTE: The season varies from year to year. Dependent upon weather conditions. Hot Summer days and cool nights just above freezing bring spectacular display of CO)
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OPEN. Updated: 2001-06-13 11:24:00.0
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