5 Miles One Way 7400-9400 Elevation 10 miles to Rampart Range Road

The Mount Herman Road runs into the mountains west of Monument and connects with Rampart Range Road 13 miles away. This rough road follows the canyon to the flat top of Rampart Range, and has good views of both the mountains and plains.

This ride can start either in Monument or follow Mt Herman Road two miles to Red Rock Road, turn right and park in the horse area.

From Red Rock Road, the Mount Herman Road starts climbing immediately. This is a dusty and bumpy dirt road, but is an enjoyable ride with its usual light traffic. After a mile and a half, the road turns to the west and above a forested valley. From this bend in the road is great views of the whole country side from Palmer Lake to the Air Force Academy.

Continuing up the road is a series of switchbacks with the canyon to the left and mountains to the right. The road levels off after about five miles from Red Rock Road, and then weaves through the rolling hills and forest of the Rampart Range Plateau for another five miles. Though not as spectacular, this part is through scenic trees, rock formations and has numerous views of the nearby canyons. Ten miles from the start is Rampart Range Road. And then it's an easy ride back down Mount Herman Road, with all the great views ahead of you.

There are several jeep roads in the area, giving the appearance of alternate ways back down. Don't even bother, they all dead end near the bottom or are fenced off on private property.