Kezar Loop Road - Level 2
Kezar Loop Road is a BLM backcountry loop in Gunnison County, Colorado, in the Kezar Basin area south of Blue Mesa Reservoir. The route runs through open sagebrush country and rolling basin terrain, with views across the reservoir and toward the surrounding high country.
The loop is a quiet alternative to the paved highway traffic along the reservoir. It works as a half-day outing or as a side trip while passing through the Gunnison area.
Trail Summary
- LocationGunnison County, Colorado
- Distance23.6 miles
- DifficultyLevel 2
- Elevation7,604 ft to 9,011 ft with a 1,407 ft change
- Travel Time2 hours 49 minutes
Difficulty
Typically suitable for high clearance 2WD
This is an Easy, level 2 route. It is typically suitable for a high clearance 2WD vehicle with stock equipment, though the surface will likely test tire traction and ground clearance in places. Expect dirt and rocky road with dips, ruts, rocks and small ledges, generally under 9 to 12 inches. Some sections can be steep but should have good traction when dry. The road is typically unmaintained after rain or snow, and shallow water crossings are possible. The road is generally one to two vehicles wide. The driver's log has no entries calling out a specific obstacle or hazard.
Terrain
The road is mostly native-surface dirt and gravel, with some rocky sections and washouts where runoff has cut across the track. It crosses open sagebrush benches and basin country at the edge of the Gunnison high desert, with scattered junipers and some oak brush on the slopes. The surface softens and becomes slick when wet, and clay in this part of Colorado turns sticky after rain.
Highlights
Views of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado, open up from the higher parts of the loop. The basin is also good habitat for deer, elk and Gunnison sage-grouse, so wildlife sightings are common, especially early and late in the day. Several other BLM roads branch off nearby, so the loop can be combined with other exploring in the area.
Trail GPS File
Map
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