Metberry Gulch 4x4 Road

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Colorado Springs, Co

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Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.5 miles / 7.2 km
Duration: Half day

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Overview: One of three trails in the area known as the "Gulches." The other two trails, Longwater and Hackett are only partially opened at this time. Metberry is the only trail open all the way to the river. About halfway through the trail you’ll break out of tree cover and into the remains of the Hayman Fire from 2002. While some vegetation is starting to come back, most of the trees are burned and dead.The end of the trail is a wide open area next to the South Platte River. This is a great place to have lunch and hang out with the family. This is an out-and-back trail and most of the challenge comes on the uphill drive out. Located in Pike National Forest. For current conditions call Pikes Peak Ranger District (719) 636-1602

Rating:

The first part of the trail is fairly easy, but when the trail starts its descent to the river, it gets very steep with undulating terrain. Without good articulation, tires may come off the ground for brief periods, causing a sliding sensation that may intimidate novice drivers. Don't go down if you are concerned about getting back up.

This trail is one of 100 trails from the book Guide to Colorado Backroads & 4WD Trails by FunTreks Publishing, available at http://www.funtreks.com

Tips: Novice drivers should have an experienced person along with them for advice. Conditions can deteriorate quickly on the steep slopes.

Trail conditions can change without notice. FunTreks, Inc. and its owner and employees are not responsible for injury, death, or vehicle damage as a result of using this guide. The content of this guide is the property of FunTreks, Inc. and is made available to the user pursuant to EveryTrail’s Terms of Service (http://www.everytrail.com/tos.php).

Points of Interest

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Start of Trail

First part of the trail twists and turns over relatively level terrain.

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First Half is Mostly Easy

The first part of the trail goes through a wooded area that doesn’t present much challenge. Depending on the season & conditions, there could be a few ruts and/or puddles to contend with. There are a couple of minor creek crossings that are usually more mud and rock than water.

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More Burn Damage on Second Half

About halfway through the trail you’ll emerge from thriving trees into the Hayman Fire from 2002. While some vegetation is starting to grow back, most of the trees in this area were burned. The trail soon begins steep descent to river. Trail is quite rutted and good articulation is necessary to stop from sliding excessively.

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Chicken Scratch Hill and The Rock

After descending steep, narrow twisty section, the road turns hard right and goes straight down the mountain. This spot is called Chicken Scratch Hill. Conditions vary from fairly smooth to deep moguls that develop with use over time. After Chicken Scratch Hill, you encounter The Rock, a large slab of smooth rock but very steep. Traction is good until point where rock ends and gravel begins.

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Continues Steeply Downhill to River

After The Rock, the trail remains steep a short distance as you drop to the river.

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Picnic Area

This trail ends at the South Platte River with a very large parking area. It’s not uncommon for multiple groups to be hanging out by the river at the same time. Since the trail doesn’t take too long, this is a great place to have a picnic or let the dogs play in the water. Depending on the season the river can flow very rapidly, so it’s not advised to let children play in the water.