Comanche Lake (#990)

The Comanche Lake Trail is most commonly accessed from the east via the Beaver Creek Trail (#942) which skirts the north side of Sky Ranch (private), Hourglass Reservoir (private), and Comanche Reservoir before entering the Comanche Peak Wilderness. About 3½ miles from the Beaver Creek Trailhead and about half-mile after entering the Wilderness and travel zone, the Comanche Lake Trail branches to the left, soon crosses Beaver Creek, and ascends to the lake. Comanche Lake Trail may also be accessed via longer routes using the Browns Lake Trail (#941), and the Flowers Trail (#939).

You can find more information on the Poudre Wilderness Volunteers website. Download trail summary here.

At a Glance

Usage:	Light
Restrictions:	General Wilderness Regulations: Dogs must be on a hand held leash. No motorized or mechanized equipment. Group size limited to 12 people or stock animals combined. No campfires – stoves only. Overnight stock use prohibited.
Closest Towns:	Rustic, Fort Collins
Water:	Water can be filtered and treated from nearby water sources.
Restroom:	Practice Leave No Trace principles.

General Information

Directions: Travel 11 miles northwest of Fort Collins on U.S. Highway 287 to Colorado Highway 14. Turn left on CO 14, travel 26 miles, and turn left on County Road 63E, Pingree Park Road. Travel 16 miles to Forest Road 145. Turn right, pass Tom Bennett Campground, and travel 2 miles to Beaver Creek Trailhead just before entering Sky Ranch.

Activities

Day Hiking

You will have to hike approximately 4.2 miles from the Beaver Creek trailhead to get to the Comanche Lake trail junction. The lake is a little over one mile from this junction. If you are seeking solitude at a sub-alpine lake, you want to try this hike. For parking information see Beaver Creek trailhead.