Synopsis
The Jersey Jim Lookout and Gold Run Loops are two separate trails in the Colorado network. However they connect in a few spots, so we chose to run this as one loop. Here you will find beautiful mountain views, lots of aspen and other interesting plants, great backcountry camping and a large network of 4wd trails to get lost on. This area was very quiet when we ran it in mid July, running into only a few atv's and no other trucks. We camped about 100 yards from the trail and had no one go by while there. Be sure to check out the Jersey Jim Fire Lookout which has been fully restored and can be rented for a vacation getaway!
Group Size:
Although the trail is wide and well maintained in most parts, if you choose to do some of the off-shoots there is not a lot of room to turn around on a single track. Also some of the dispersed camping areas are small. 5 trucks or less.
Difficulty
2.0- Most of this trail can be done in 2wd in good weather. Some of the off-shoot trails you may choose to venture down get narrow and are MUCH less traveled, so 4wd would be recommended here. Also, depending on weather sections of this run are heavily rutted and muddy needing 4wd to get through.
Length
58 Miles
Location
Southwestern Colorado between Dolores and Mancos. Trail can be run either direction, we chose to run from west to east.
Aerial of the trail:
Pictures
A vast majority of the trail on Jersey Jim is wide graded dirt roads
One of the off-shoots
Some of the trail gets curvey but still well maintained
On to the Gold Loop with great camping
Lots of rock slides along the Gold Loop but the trail has been cleared
Connecting back up with the Jersey Jim Loop
Previous AZFJ Runs to this Trail
Summit Adventure!
GPS Track