Upper Clinetop Road (Forest Road # 603)


The upper portion of Clinetop Road is approximately 11 miles long and traverses the top of Clinetop Mesa. The road is open to highway legal vehicles, OHVs, and motorcycles, as well as bicycle, foot, and horse traffic. The grade and terrain are suitable for passenger cars and drivers of all skill levels. Please drive carefully and be courteous to all other users. Upper Cinetop Road connects with several other motorized routes and eventually terminates at Forest Road-651 near Adams Lake.  

The top of Clinetop Mesa is a great location for scenic driving, hunting, and dispersed camping.

At a Glance

Open Season: Appx. May 20
Busiest Season: Hunting season
Restrictions:
  • The road is closed to wheeled motorized vehicles from November 23rd to May 20th. In winter Upper Clinetop Road is groomed for snowmobile travel by the Flattoppers Snowmobile Club.
  • Please be aware that this area is an active range allotment during the summer. Watch out for livestock on the roads!
Closest Towns:  New Castle, CO; Silt, CO
Water: No
Restroom: No
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center: Rifle Ranger District, (970) 625-2371

General Information

Directions:

From Newcastle travel north on 7th street (which becomes Midland Ave), and take a slight left onto County Road 245 (Buford Road). Travel 3.1 miles and turn right onto County Road 243 (Main Elk Creek Road).  Travel 5.8 miles to the beginning of Lower Clinetop Road, and then proceed another 11 miles to the top of Clinetop Mesa.


Activities

Mountain Biking

Dispersed Camping

Day Hiking

Horse Riding

Big Game Hunting

Viewing Scenery

OHV Road Riding

OHV Trail Riding

Scenic Driving

Snowmobiling

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
11 miles approx.