Browns Canyon
National Monument

Aspen Ridge

Camping

The Forest Service allows some dispersed camping in the Aspen Ridge area, mainly along FS 185, also known as Aspen Ridge Road, which defines most of the monument’s eastern boundary.

Hiking

Accessed via FSR 185D, the Hefley Saddle Trail (Trail 1435) provides a moderate loop hike in the northeast corner of Browns Canyon National Monument. The multi-use trail is also open to human-powered bicycles and horseback riders.

Horseback Riding

The Hefley Saddle Trail is popular for horseback riding.

Mountain Biking

The Hefley Saddle Trail is the only trail in the monument designated for mountain biking. Motorized access, including e-bikes, is not permitted on the trail.

Sightseeing

Aspen Ridge Road provides excellent sightseeing opportunities. The road is unpaved, and the southern portion requires a high clearance vehicle. As the name suggests, Aspen Ridge is especially scenic during fall when the aspen leaves turn golden. 

Critical Habitat

The Aspen Ridge area provides important habitat for elk, mule deer, Canada lynx and Mexican spotted owl.

Seasonal Closures

Aspen Ridge Road

Along the eastern boundary of the national monument, much of Aspen Ridge Road (Forest Service Road 185) is closed from Dec. 1 until April 30 each year to protect critical winter habitat for certain wildlife species.

Forest Service Trails 1434, Forest Service Road 185D

Along the northern boundary of the national monument, Forest Service Trail 1434 and Forest Service Road 185D are closed from Dec. 1 until April 30 to protect critical winter game habitat. 1434 is an ATV trail.

Livestock

Local ranchers have grazing allotments in and around Browns Canyon National Monument that predate the monument, and it is common to see cattle in the Aspen Ridge area. Please help out our local ranchers by leaving all gates as you find them and not tampering with stock tanks.

Also, driving, parking and camping in open meadows damages the grasses that cattle and wildlife need for forage, which is especially critical in this high desert climate.

Leave No Trace

Please follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace outdoor recreation.

  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare.
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces.
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly.
  4. Leave What You Find.
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts.
  6. Respect Wildlife.
  7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors.