North Fork

This last weekend we went hiking up the North Fork of the Big Thompson River. The weather was simply fabulous for the end of February, and we were happy to be outside, even though there actually was a lot of snow on the ground (we both had hiking boots on and were fine).

The trail first heads downhill towards the river, then meanders alongside the river for most of the rest of the hike. The river was still quite icy and frozen, but parts were quickly melting on such a warm day (Kevin had to stick his hand in to make sure it was actually very cold). You cross about 5 bridges during the hike (we had some disagreement about this, but I believe the final number was 5), and you also pass by a summer retreat/camp. Kevin saw a trout in the river at one point and the water was crystal clear.

We only hiked about 2 miles in and then returned the same way, but if you keep going, you can enter RMNP (Rocky Mtn Natl Park) from here. There are also campsites at about the 2 mile mark, which require no permit, so it could be a good place to go that's not too far away and doesn't require a lot of advanced planning.

To get there, you take Highway 34 to Drake. Turn right on CR43 toward Glen Haven, and just before mile marker 9, turn right onto a dirt road (CR51B). Continue for 2.5 miles until the end of the road, where the trailhead begins.