You've just got to try the Snowslide ATV trail #1318! Located long 5.6 miles of San Isabel National Forest, This lightly used ATV trail certainly has it's ups and downs. And we mean just that.
Snowslide ATV Trail begins with a fairly steep ascent up a gravel road. But don't relax yet ATV fans, because as soon as it mellows out it begins to go steep again. About 4 miles from the highway the ATV trail begins some more steep switchbacks through timberland. Eventually you and your ATV will come out to a patch of snow that is almost always there. You may actually be able to see it from I-25 when you drive in. It's a good thing though, since there are no creeks to provide water in this area. The closest spring is about 3.5 miles from the trail's head.
The park system rates this ATV trail as moderate to difficult and the season runs from mid-June through mid-October
The quickest way to get to Snowslide ATV trail from the Lake Isabel Recreation Area is to head 1 mile south of Lake Isabel on Highway 165. Watch for the sign next to the road. Or ATV enthusiasts can drive a total of 24 miles from Lake Isabel. Go north on Highway 165 to the Ophir Creek Road. Be sure to follow the better road to the left which is Greenhorn Mountain Road. The Snowslide trailhead is just past where Cisneros Trail crosses the road and Pole Creek Trail ends.
As always, the parks system requires ATV riders to follow some basic rules. You'll need your ATV permit to ride, and you'll need to make sure the muffler and spark arrestor on your ATV are in working order. Be sure to keep your ATV on the trails, no off roading. For further tips on successful ATVing consult your Treadlightly manual.
