American Basin ATV Trail

This is one of the most scenic ATV trails in the San Juan Mountains. It's not a heavily used ATV trail area and therefore the trails are dense and narrow. It's open for ATV use from July through October. You will be sharing these trails with other ATV riders, horseback riders and motorcyclists, be aware and be safe when riding your ATV on these trails.

This ATV trail is only 3.2 miles to Handies Peak and is rated as easy to moderate, therefore it's a great area for newer ATV riders to hone their skills in controlling and maneuvering their ATVs.

When riding these ATV trails it will be common to see carpets of blooming wild flowers and wildlife peeking out at you through the brush on your way to the Handies Peak.

Be careful to stay on the trails to avoid any erosion of the land. Trails are carefully maintained to be used for a specific period of time and new trails are established to allow old trails to reclaim themselves. This keeps the ATV trails fresh and new at all times for all riders. Handies Peak is a prize in itself. it is at 14,048 feet, and offers a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains.

Sudden thundershowers are a very common occurrence in this area, be aware of the dangers of lightening and flash flooding. Avoid the peak, ridges and open areas during a storm. Never ride these ATV trails alone and if you are newer to the sport of ATV riding, be sure to have an experienced ATV rider with you.