Skip to main content
Recreation Region: Boulder Ranger District

East Portal Trailhead

Provides access to South Boulder Creek Trail, Forest Lakes Trail, Crater Lakes Trail, Ute Trail and the Continental Divide Trail inside the James Peak Wilderness.

General Information

Motorized equipment and mechanized transportation are prohibited.

Pets must be on a hand-held leash.

Campfires are prohibited year round.

Campsites must be at least 100 feet away from water and trail.

Group size is limited to 12 (people and livestock combined).

Processed weed-free feed is required for stock.

Fishing and hunting is permitted in accordance with regulations established by Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

Dogs must be on a hand-held leash.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 39.9017

Longitude: -105.6453

Directions

From Nederland, travel south for 4.5 miles on Colorado Highway 119 to Rollinsville. Turn west onto the gravel Gilpin County Road 16 and continue eight miles to the Moffat Tunnel. 

Parking

A large parking area is available at the East Portal Trailhead.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Horse/Pack Animal Information

Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.

Processed weed-free feed is required for stock.

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Groups

alpine lake above treeline with dots of white snow in mountain setting

These recreation sites and trail segments are located along the Continental Divide Trail.

Last updated March 26th, 2025