LEAD KING BASIN

BACKCOUNTRY ROAD ETIQUETTE

If you decide to attempt the road to Crystal City or Lead King Basin, please keep in mind the following rules of off-road etiquette.

1. Right-of-way. Please yield the right-of-way to non-motorized travelers (hikers, horses, bicyclists) and to vehicles going uphill.
2. Leave no trace. Pack it in, pack it out. If you see trash on the trail, pick it up.
3. Do not go off the trail and do not widen the trail. Millions of acres that once were available to off-roaders are now closed because of improper use. Every time someone misuses a trail it puts everyone that much closer to losing more ground. Please respect the area you are in and try to enhance the image of off-roaders, not erode it.
4. When you really have to go, bring a shovel. Solid waste should be buried at least 6 inches deep and 100 yards from any campsite and/or water. There is a public outhouse in Crystal City behind the store.
5. Air down your tires. This improves traction and helps prevent punctures (20-25 psi recommended).
6. Don’t harass the wildlife. And don’t let your pet do it either. Keep them under control. By law all pets must be leashed while in the White River National Forest areas.
7. Do not speed. Excessive speed, and the noise and dust that go with it, is no one’s friend off-road. Our drivers average 2.5 mph on the trail and rarely spin a wheel. If you do not have four-wheel drive, you probably should not attempt this road. If you want to ride motocross or race off-road, find a track.
8. Be prepared.   Water, food, spare tire and jack come to mind. Sensible footwear and dressing in layers helps as well.
9. Read this web page:   https://www.colorado.com/CareForColorado