North Fork (#929)


The beginning of the North Fork Trail. A vault toilet on the left; information signage on the right.

This trail crosses through the Comanche Peak Wilderness and into Rocky Mountain National Park. From the parking area the trail drops into a canyon and follows the North Fork of the Big Thompson for several miles. Bridges have been placed at some of the stream crossings. The trail briefly passes through the private Cheley Camp, please do not trespass. Before the trail departs from the river it passes through large open meadows with historic cabins, commonly known as Deserted Village and then ascends to the border of Rocky Mountain National Park. Access the North Fork Trail from the Dunraven trailhead graveled parking lot. You will find room room for 23 vehicles and a vault toilet.

You can find more information at Poudre Wilderness Volunteers.

At a Glance

Usage: Heavy
Restrictions: General Wilderness Regulations: Dogs must be on a hand held leash. No motorized or mechanized equipment. Camps, campfires, and stock, where allowed, at least 200 feet from water and trails. Group size limited to 12 people or stock animals combined. Certified weed-free hay is required for stock. No campfires – stoves only. Overnight stock use is prohibited.
Closest Towns: Glen Haven, Estes Park
Water: Water can be filtered and treated from nearby water sources.
Restroom: Practice Leave No Trace principles.

General Information

Directions:

Travel on U.S. Highway 34 west of Loveland to Drake. Turn right on County Road 43, Glen Haven Road, and continue for 6 miles to Dunraven Glade Road. Turn right and travel 3 miles to the trailhead parking lot at the end of this gravel road.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

See Dunraven trailhead.
Fire Information This trail is within a Comanche Peak Wilderness Area Travel Zone, which prohibits campfires.
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Backpacking

See Dunraven trailhead.
Fire Information This trail is within a Comanche Peak Wilderness Area Travel Zone, which prohibits campfires.
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Horse Riding

See Dunraven trailhead.
Size Restrictions no
Corrals no
Loading Ramp no
Hitching Rails no
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Know Before You Go

Related Information

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Related Links

Campgrounds At-A-Glance

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
4.3 miles one-way

  Latitude : 
40.47553332250

  Longitude : 
-105.45990706600

  Elevation : 
Beginning Elevation: 7,990' - Peak Elevation: 8,970'