Is prior ATV experience necessary?

No, Nova Guides provides a safety and operation briefing, making the tour accessible to beginners.

Are there age restrictions?

There are no specified age restrictions, but drivers should feel comfortable handling the vehicle after training.

What happens if the weather changes unexpectedly?

Tours may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety; always check weather conditions ahead of time.

Is the $10 Forest Service Fee included in the price?

No, the fee is charged per person on top of the tour price, supporting trail maintenance.

Can I book this tour last minute?

Advance reservations are highly recommended as spots fill quickly, especially in peak season.

Are helmets provided?

Yes, helmets and other safety gear are provided as part of the orientation.

Explore Colorado’s White River National Forest on a Self-Guided Side-by-Side ATV Adventure | Self-Guided Tour | Wildlife

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the White River National Forest offers a playground for those eager to experience high-altitude adventure. From Red Cliff, a gateway town renowned for its classic mountain charm, you can access an exhilarating four-hour self-guided tour with Nova Guides that lets you explore rugged terrain aboard a Side-by-Side ATV. This experience combines freedom, excitement, and breathtaking scenery as you traverse over 100 miles of well-maintained trails ranging from 9,200 to 12,000 feet in elevation.

What sets this tour apart is its self-paced nature paired with professional safety instruction provided before you hit the trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced off-roader, Nova Guides equips you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the forest's alpine meadows, winding streams, and wildflower-filled fields on your own terms. The White River National Forest is a mosaic of diverse habitats — towering pines, aspen groves, and open high-country slopes — that shelter an array of wildlife such as mule deer and elusive pine martens.

The trail system itself is a highlight, offering a variety of terrains including forested single tracks, open ridgelines, and gentle creek crossings. You’re likely to encounter the distinctive rhyolite and granite rock formations that sculpt the landscape, along with panoramic mountain vistas that stretch to some of Colorado’s famous fourteeners.

Red Cliff serves as the ideal base camp, reflecting the spirit of Colorado’s mountain culture with cozy lodges and local eateries perfect for refueling after your ride. Nova Guides, located conveniently on US-24, stands out as a respected outfitter in the region, committed to sustainable outdoor recreation and offering personalized service that enhances your backcountry experience.

One thing to note before you embark is the required $10 Forest Service Fee per person, a small contribution that helps maintain the trails and protect this pristine environment. With this adventure, you get both thrills and access to one of Colorado’s most treasured and accessible wilderness areas, making it a must-book for off-road enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Whether you’re chasing high-speed turns or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Rockies, this self-guided tour delivers an unforgettable glimpse of Colorado’s wild heart.

About Nova Guides

Nova Guides is an outdoor adventure outfitter based in Red Cliff, Colorado, specializing in guided off-road and river experiences near Camp Hale and throughout the High Rockies. The company offers a diverse range of motorized tours — including jeep tours, ATVs, and side‑by‑side excursions — as well as guided fly fishing trips and self‑guided rentals. Many experiences highlight local history, notably the training legacy of the 10th Mountain Division at Camp Hale, and several routes feature sweeping views of four mountain ranges and the Continental Divide just 15 miles from Vail.

Tours are offered in private and small‑group formats with morning, midday, and afternoon departures to suit varied schedules. Specific products include a Morning Camp Hale Jeep Tour with a visit to the Colorado Snowsports Museum and a complimentary whiskey tasting, private Red and White Mountain jeep tours, technical Xtreme Xplorer ATV runs for experienced single riders, and family‑friendly guided ATV or side‑by‑side outings with comprehensive safety instruction.

Guides provide necessary gear, operating guidance, and route briefing so participants of differing skill levels can join select experiences. The guided half‑day fly fishing trip includes rods, tackle, and access to private waters. Self‑guided two‑hour rentals allow independent exploration for guests who prefer freedom on marked trails.

Featured on The Adventure Collective, Nova Guides combines regional knowledge, equipment provisioning, and structured safety protocols to deliver reliable outdoor adventures in the Camp Hale and Red Cliff area. Booking options include private tours, guided departures, and self‑guided rentals with flexible scheduling and clear policies.