Four-wheeling to the Clinetops

New Castle is the gateway to the Flattops.  One of the most spectacular drives is the four-wheel-drive road to Clinetop Mesa.  Take 7^th Street/Midland north.  At the edge of town it becomes the Buford Road/CR 245.  Approximately three miles from town, turn right onto Main Elk Road (CR 243).  After about six miles the paved road ends and you’ll see the parking lot for Hadley Gulch trail.  Shift into four-wheel drive.

The one-lane Clinetops Road has many sharp switchbacks, so drive slowly and be prepared to pull over for on-coming vehicles.  At least half of the sharp turns have extra space for passing or parking.  Be sure to stop at some of these to enjoy the views.

Near the upper end of the road you’ll come to the area burned in the fire of 2002.  The new growth is testament to the forest recovery process.  The road ends on top of the mesa.

During the spring mud season the road requires more caution, and the upper half may be blocked by snow long after warm weather has reached lower elevations.  In the fall the road is heavily traveled by hunters, and your progress can be considerably impeded.  June, July, August and early September are the ideal times to take the drive.