“A jeep on a paved road is safe, but that’s not what jeeps are built for.” This adage resonated with me as I embarked on the shakedown cruise of my newly built two-door Rubicon. With 37-inch mud tires and a 3.5-inch lift kit, she was ready to tackle the rugged terrains of Chinaman Gulch, located near Buena Vista. Our goal? To test the Jeep’s mettle on a challenging trail, a perfect blend of adventure and accessibility.
The Journey Begins:
April’s build completion coincided perfectly with our expedition to Chinaman Gulch. Opting for this trail was a strategic choice, influenced by ego, weather conditions, and proximity to our headquarters. We wanted a tough trail that was open and free of snow, and Chinaman Gulch checked all the boxes.
Embracing the Outdoors:
Accompanying me was Branden, and together we chose to immerse ourselves in the true spirit of off-roading by camping at dispersed sites in the Fourmile Area and along the Arkansas River. However, we did indulge in a bit of comfort with a victory dinner at Casa Sanchez 3 and a rejuvenating soak at Cottonwood Hot Springs.
The Trail Experience:
Midweek turned out to be an ideal time to run Chinaman Gulch. The seven-mile loop trail was ours alone, offering a mix of challenging obstacles and breathtaking climbs. The trail starts with an ascent leading to the end of Carnage Canyon and soon transitions into a lolly-pop loop. Well-signed and directional, we navigated the trail, controlling the difficulty level through various bypasses and alternate lines.
Thrills and Spills:
The trail’s climax came halfway through, marked by a series of obstacles, each testing our Jeep’s capabilities. Both Branden and I found ourselves stuck at different points but managed to self-recover each time. A particularly heart-stopping moment occurred when I nearly tipped my Rubicon while descending a steep hill. Branden claimed my rear driver tire lifted at least four feet off the ground, a testament to the fine line between control and chaos in off-roading.
Validating the Build:
Chinaman Gulch wasn’t just a trail; it was a proving ground for my Jeep’s build. The experience validated my decisions and upgrades, offering a mix of satisfaction and relief.
Trail Recommendations:
For those planning to take on Chinaman Gulch, here are my recommendations:
Equip your vehicle with at least 35-inch tires, but be prepared for some scrapes.
Never go alone and always have an experienced wheeler in your group.
After completing the trail, take the time to hike the one-mile Carnage Canyon trail. The warning sign at the start doesn’t do justice to this extreme trail – it’s an excellent spot for stretching your legs and letting dogs run free.
Trail Details:
Chinaman Gulch is a well-marked trail, easy to navigate with Johnson Village nearby for gas and supplies. Be prepared for the heat, as the tree cover is sparse and the trail faces the sun. Stock up on water, and note that the last real restroom is at the trailhead, equipped with a port-a-potty. The trailhead’s large lot can accommodate many vehicles but tends to fill up on busy weekends.
Conclusion:
Rated as difficult, Chinaman Gulch lives up to its reputation and stands as a must-do for Colorado Jeepers. It’s a trail that not only challenges your vehicle but also elevates your off-roading skills, forging unforgettable memories in the rugged heart of Colorado.