Yankee Hill

Yankee Hill has multiple access points. A common western approach is via Fall River Road (CR 275), north of Idaho Springs. West End Start (via Fall River Road): From I-70, take Exit 238 for Fall River Road (CR 275) just past Idaho Springs. Drive north on Fall River Road for approximately 8.5 miles and turn right onto Mine Road. This leads into the Yankee Hill trail system. An alternative start via Cumberland Gulch is to bear right where a switchback swings left, about 7.0 miles up Fall River Road. East End Start (via Central City/Black Hawk): From Black Hawk, head southwest on Gregory Street (which becomes Lawrence Street). After 0.5 miles, continue onto Eureka Street. After another 0.5 miles, turn right to stay on Eureka Street. Continue 0.3 miles to CR 3/Upper Apex Road. After 0.4 miles, turn left onto CR 1-N/King Flats Road. Go 1.6 miles to a bend in King Flats Road and continue straight onto Bald Mountain Road. Follow Bald Mountain Road for 1.9 miles to an intersection. Take the right fork to head north on CR25/Pisgah Lake Road, which is part of the Yankee Hill network. A GPS is highly recommended as the trail network can be confusing.

Yankee Hill is generally considered a moderate trail network. Most routes can be handled by a stock high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with a capable driver. You'll encounter sections of dirt, gravel, and notably, rocky areas. Expect some steep climbs and descents. There are 'chewed up' rocky sections, particularly in the middle of some routes, and some parts can be narrow. While there are no extreme, vehicle-damaging obstacles on the main routes, careful tire placement is often needed. Optional, more challenging lines and hill climbs exist for those looking for a tougher experience. The biggest challenge for many is navigating the extensive network of trails, so be prepared for that. Some users have found certain sections surprisingly intense with rocks and obstacles, especially if attempting more difficult spurs or if conditions are poor.