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Big South Trailhead (#944)
The Big South Trail enters the Comanche Peak Wilderness a half-mile from the trailhead. The Flowers Trail (#939) intersects from the east shortly before the trail fords the Poudre River. The river crossing is difficult or dangerous depending on the time of year, the amount of runoff, and the water flow controlled by Long Draw Reservoir. The Big South Trail continues south to join the Corral Creek Trail (# 989) and provides access to Rocky Mountain National Park via the Poudre River Trail. The Big South Trailhead accommodates approximately 19 vehicles.
Download trail summary here. (.pdf)
You can find more information about this area on the Poudre Wilderness Volunteers webpage.
Length: 10.4 miles one-way
Elevation: Beginning Elevation: 8,440' - Peak Elevation: 9,550'
At a Glance
| Usage: | Heavy |
|---|---|
| Restrictions: | General Wilderness Regulations:
|
| Closest Towns: | Rustic, Fort Collins |
| Water: | Water can be filtered and treated from nearby water sources |
| Restroom: | Practice Leave No Trace principles. (Bury human waste 6 inches deep & 100 ft from water) |
General Information
Directions:Fom Fort Collins, CO travel 11 miles northwest on U.S. Highway 287 and Colorado Highway 14. Turn left on CO 14, and travel 49 miles west. Trailhead parking is located on the left just before the road crosses a bridge and the Big South Campground.
Activities
Day Hiking
River sounds are your constant companion along the Big South trail. For over 7 miles the trail parallels the The Wild and Scenic Corridor of the Cache la Poudre River. In the early season you may see kayakers challenge themselves in the strong currents. Any river crossing is difficult or dangerous depending on the time of year and the water coming out of Long Draw Reservoir. The Big South trailhead accommodates approximately 19 vehicles.
| Fire Information | This trail is within a Comanche Peak Wilderness Area Travel Zone, which prohibits campfires. |
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Backpacking
The Big South trailhead accommodates approximately 19 vehicles.| Fire Information | This trail is within a Comanche Peak Wilderness Area Travel Zone, which prohibits campfires. |
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|
Horse Riding
The Big South trailhead accommodates approximately 19 vehicles.| Size Restrictions | no |
| Corrals | no |
| Loading Ramp | no |
| Hitching Rails | no |
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
|---|