Kelly Flats
No elevation data available
Description
Kelly Flats is a well-known and exciting 4x4 trail located in the beautiful Arapaho National Forest, near the Poudre Canyon. This trail is a favorite for off-road enthusiasts looking for a rugged and challenging adventure, offering a mix of steep climbs and descents, tricky rock obstacles, occasional water crossings, and scenic drives through lush meadows with picturesque mountain views. Highlights include the infamous 'Heart Attack Hill' and 'The Chutes,' which will test your driving skills and vehicle capability. Fortunately, bypasses are available for these tougher sections if you're not feeling up to the extreme challenge, though even the bypasses can be rough. The trail is roughly 10-13 miles long and typically takes several hours to complete. It's recommended to travel with recovery gear and be prepared for varied conditions. Remember to be respectful when passing through a short residential section along North Rim Road.
Directions
To get to the eastern trailhead of Kelly Flats from Fort Collins:
- Head north on U.S. 287 North (South College Ave).
- Continue on U.S. 287 North for about 4.2 miles.
- Turn right to stay on U.S. 287 North / Colorado Hwy 14 West and drive for another 6.1 miles.
- At Ted's Place, turn left onto Colorado Hwy 14 West (Poudre Canyon Hwy).
- Follow Hwy 14 West for approximately 25.3 miles.
- Look for a right turn off the highway into a large parking area. This is across from the Kelly Flats Campground (which will be on your left). The trail (Forest Road 168) begins from this parking area, usually at the top of a short hill.
Difficulty
This trail is rated as difficult. You'll encounter significant challenges like 'Heart Attack Hill,' which is a long, steep, and rocky climb with ruts and a narrow chute at the top. Another major obstacle is 'The Chutes,' an extreme and very tricky climb that winds between large boulders and includes a tight turn. The trail generally features steep ascents and descents, numerous rock obstacles, and potential water crossings. While it can be quite unnerving for those new to off-roading, it also provides a satisfying challenge for experienced drivers. If you're not ready for the main obstacles, bypass trails are available, but be aware that these can also be rough, with moguls and loose surface dirt.
Trail Uses
- Off-Road Vehicles
- 4x4 Vehicle
- All-Terrain Vehicle
- Motorcycle
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