Arkansas River/ Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Beginner-Intermediate 3 Hours     20 Miles

Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep are often found grazing along the banks of the Arkansas River, adding a wild and beautiful dimension to an outing.

Designated by the state legislature in 1990, Bighorn Sheep Canyon extends from Salida east to Parkdale on U.S. 50.

This is a favored ride during winter. The road along the north bank of the Arkansas is almost always free of snow.

Ride: Wellsville to Coaldale Bridge along Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
Rating: Beginner, Intermediate
Distance: 12 miles, 24 round trip.
Time: 2 to 3 hours.
Elevation: 6,500 to 6,800 feet
Trail: Gravel and dirt, four-wheel drive road.
Map: USFS San Isabel National Forest.
Access: Travel five miles east of Salida on U.S. 50. Turn left (south) off of U.S. 50 at the sign that says Wellsville, Fremont CR 7/45.
Ride Description: Turning off of U.S. 50 at Wellsville you cross over the Arkansas where the road will turn east again. Park here. You will stay on CR 7/45 for the entire ride.

This ride takes you along the scenic Arkansas River where Rocky Mountain bighorn and great fishing are found. Some sand and short rocky expanses will be encountered, but are easily walked.

At Mile three you will need to cross Badger Creek. During high-water months, you may need to turn back here, depending on how heavily the stream is flowing. Typically, it is low and easily crossed.

If you prefer, you can start the trip off U.S. 50 in Howard and head west, turning around at Badger.

At mile six you enter Howard. If you turn right on CR 248, you cross the Arkansas by the Frontier Café and come back out to U.S. 50. You could have a shuttle waiting here.

Stay on CR 45 for five miles, to continue to the Coaldale Bridge. Here, cross the Arkansas River again and return to U.S. 50, completing 12 miles from the start of your ride. You could also have a shuttle waiting here.