Old Chalk Creek Road

Paralleling Chalk Creek between Saint Elmo and Mount Princeton Hot Springs, Old Chalk Creek Road is a nearly 6-mile straight-through dirt road through the San Isabel National Forest. The road is dual-managed as Forest Road 292 and County Road 292. The road is primarily packed dirt, 1.5-2 vehicles wide the entire way. The difficulty of the road is divided into three sections: west of Iron City Campground, Iron City to Alpine Lake, and east of Alpine Lake. From the western end to Iron City Campground, the road is very easy, well-maintained, and suitable for any vehicle. East of the campground until Alpine Lake, the road is rough with protruding rocks of several inches and several sharp grades. Low-clearance vehicles, trailers, and RVs are encouraged to avoid this middle section of the road. East of Alpine Lake, you will encounter many private residences, and the road is once again an easy, well-maintained dirt road suitable for any vehicle.

Along the drive, you will see many beaver ponds, old mining buildings, the Iron City Cemetery, and several areas to picnic and enjoy the cool waters of Chalk Creek. Dispersed camping is not allowed along this road, but improved camping can be found for a nightly fee at the Iron City Campground, where you will find a pit toilet, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes.