Recreation Region: Blanco Ranger District

South Fork #1827

The South Fork Trail follows the South Fork of the White River for 16 miles. Nearly all of the South Fork Trail is in the Flat Tops Wilderness. The trail travels through many species of trees and shrubs, interspersed with grassy meadows. Three miles from the South Fork Campground, the trail crosses a section of private land. Two miles further it crosses a second section of private land near Lost Solar Creek. Please respect private property and remain on the trail.

Seven miles from the campground, the trail crosses Park Creek, and three miles above Park Creek it passes the South Fork Falls. Three miles above the falls, the canyon begins to widen near Budges' Resort (also accessible by the Coffee Pot Road from Dotsero). The trail then heads north, following the river through a wide, grassy area called "The Meadows," and terminating near Nichols Creek and Doe Creek.

General Information

Wilderness regulations apply in Flat Tops Wilderness.

Getting There

Elevation

10903'

Directions

The South Fork Trail is located 29 miles east of Meeker. From Meeker, take Colorado Highway 13 east for 1 mile, then turn right (east) on Rio Blanco County Road 8 and follow this for 18 miles. Turn south and Rio Blanco County Road 10 for 2 miles, jog north .25 miles, then continue east for 10 miles to the South Fork Campground and trailhead. The trailhead is located at the south end of the campground.