East Fork Road

Starting from the west off Highway 160, East Fork Road is a well-maintained forest service road. The road is lined with campsites, both designated and dispersed, and they range in size from single-vehicle sites to sites large enough for multiple motorhomes. Most of the road parallels the East Fork San Juan River, from being right on the banks of the river to being high above the river in its steep canyon.

Just past the four-mile mark is a sign for Elwood Pass. The sign lists trail requirements, including 4WD, low range, and high ground clearance, all of which come into play later. The obstacles get more challenging the further you go, ranging from washed-out deep ruts that swallow your tires to large rocks that scrape your undercarriage if your ground clearance is not high enough. There are also several shallow water crossings. Tight tree line portions may leave larger rigs with new pinstripes. With proper tire placement, the trail can be completed by a stock 4x4 with high clearance and low range.  The shelf road sections provide expansive meadows with views of the San Juan Mountains.