Thinking of running a couple of easy/moderate trails or passes in central/north central Colorado in late September to catch some fall foliage/color. Would a completely stock 2016 LX 570 on 32" Michelin Defenders (18' wheels) make it from St. Elmo to Tin Cup? I understand there was a massive mud pit that I wouldn't have been able to get around on the St. Elmo side but I understand it was 'repaired' back in May. And I'm hoping Mirror Lake will be within its banks or at least less than a foot deep on the trail. I'm a beginner and I have no interest in tearing up anything on my rig. I do appreciate your opinions! Thank you!
Tin Cup Pass - Colorado? (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter rustsatz
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It’s been a couple years since I was last up there, but my impression was that it has gotten a lot rougher than in the past. I think you would be risking hitting some of your undercarriage, running boards and possibly scratching wheels. In any event for a beginner it may be a stressful drive if you’re trying to avoid all contact with rocks. What other easy/moderate trails have you done that you think might be comparable? I know that Boreas pass is well known for fall colors, but it is basically a dirt road which may be a little easier for a beginner.
I was just there this weekend. It's a super easy trail (for me).
September could be hit or miss with snow, especially late September.
Tin Cup isn't overly complicated.
As mentioned, if you're bone stock, you might hit a running board.
Can't promise that that water crossing will have a foot or less ether.
We camped this weekend and it got into the 30's at night. We had my nephews in town from Dallas and one of them got altitude sickness. This was there first camping trip ever and even though one got sick and we only did a night, they loved it and hope to come back for another round of camping.
September could be hit or miss with snow, especially late September.
Tin Cup isn't overly complicated.
As mentioned, if you're bone stock, you might hit a running board.
Can't promise that that water crossing will have a foot or less ether.
We camped this weekend and it got into the 30's at night. We had my nephews in town from Dallas and one of them got altitude sickness. This was there first camping trip ever and even though one got sick and we only did a night, they loved it and hope to come back for another round of camping.
- Thread starter
- #4
I'm new to this hobby. My resume since fall of 2024; Old Fall River Rd (RMNP), first 1/3rd of Mt. Princeton, Cimarron Pass (SJM), Shafer Trail/White Rim Rd. (CLNP). I will certainly drive Boreas Pass if I have the time. Thanks!
- Thread starter
- #5
Thanks for the info, AJ! Hope your nephew got to feeling better in time to enjoy some of the trip.
Do you mean Cinnamon Pass?
Another besides Boreas that would be further south/closer to Tincup would be Kebler Pass. Tons of aspen color in the fall.
I think you would probably be fine going up to Tincup from St. Elmo. Once up there you can walk/check out the west side, where it gets rockier, and decide how you want to proceed. With careful tire placement you'll probably be fine.
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- #7
Yes, Cinnamon Pass. My bad. Thanks again for the info.