I'm heading to the Avon/Vail, Colorado area later this month (June), and am trying to find out relevant, current trail information.  I've done some jeeping years ago on old mine roads/trails, and I've seen jeeps, quads and MX bikes "all over the place" out there.

I have just ordered some NG Trails Illustrated maps for the area I'll be in, but I'm still not convinced this stuff is completely "up-to-date" with what's open and what's not.  BLM and Forest Service sites are pretty quiet on the subject as well.  There is some info, but not a lot.

Anyway, I'm looking for the following info:
1.  What's the current status of various trails in/around Avon, Vail, Leadville?  Where are they, are ATVs allowed, etc.?  I've seen the signs that are supposed to be posted on trails, and maybe things are better than they were, or they've really gotten on the stick to put them up, but the last I remember (about 12 years ago), those signs were scarce as hens' teeth.  There were some, but pretty spotty.  Maybe at a trailhead, and nothing from then on, even for trail junctions, etc.  So - what's the scoop?

2.  I know I've got to have an OHV sticker/certificate, and I'll get one, but what's the law on riding ATVs in Colorado?  In KS, it's pretty simple - stay off the interstate, US and state highways, and most municipalities.  Other than that, it's pretty wide open.  You can even drive on county blacktop.  I can't seem to find anything on this for CO.  Mostly "stay on the trail" kind of stuff, but not what's required elsewhere, or if you can drive elsewhere.

3.  I have one Grizzly 700, and plan on my wife and I riding double.  Yeah, I know you aren't supposed to, but...  Anyway, any issues with this in Colorado?  Do they have laws that you "aren't supposed to" unless the vehicle is designed for two riders?

4.  Colorado helmet laws.  We've got helmets, but are they required in Colorado for ATV?  Or just certain areas?  Not saying we won't wear them, but occasionally it's kind of nice to let the wind blow through your hair.

Anything else "I really oughta' know" before going out there?

Thanks

Thanks!  That's a big help

Thanks!  The Traildamage site, along with the USDA sites are JUST what I was looking for.

Don't know why hours of google'ing didn't turn them up sooner.