V19E3: Featured Forest Road

Forest Road 797

Also known as the Neptune OHV Trail in La Plata Canyon, San Juan National Forest, in southwestern Colorado. This route is a primitive out-and-back consisting of a series of tight switchbacks and terminates at 11,500'. It initiates with a stream crossing and a small embankment. It does not require high-clearance, but it does require low-range four-wheel drive and maneuvarbility for the very tight switchbacks. If you can make it across the stream and up the bank on the other side, the rest of the trail is easy.

Neptune Trailhead

@venture4wd

There is a stream crossing here that serves as the gatekeeper for the rest of the trail. Engage low-range here. Water level was low during my visit, but it could potentially be too turbulent after a rain event.

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Neptune Overlook 1

@venture4wd

3/4 of the way up the mountain, the switchbacks will begin to yield some amazing views. This is the first view that prompted me to stop on my way up. Enjoy this spot, but keep going! There are more great views to come!

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Neptune Overlook 2

@venture4wd

Not far from the terminus is this ridge that yields a phenomenal view to the southwest. Although you can drive a little bit farther, I would say that this spot is the payoff and culmination for the entire trail. Not flat enough for camping.

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