The Big South Trail
The Big South is the sparkling south fork of the Cache la Poudre River that winds through a beautiful canyon as it rolls and tumbles and twists and turns its way down from its origin in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trailhead is where State Highway 14 and the river part company, so you can hike along the wild and scenic river in the Comanche Peak Wilderness in peace away from the highway. This is a rolling, gradually climbing trail offering the cascading river, a mixed conifer and aspen forest, and the experience of trekking up the ever-changing canyon until it vanishes into deep forest green. Sections of the trail are very rocky because it is skirts the edge of the compact arroyo, surrounded by richly stained colorful rock cliffs and rock falls. Three backcountry campsites a little more than 1 mile from the trailhead are nice for first-time backpacking experiences.
Driving Directions
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Directions to: The Big South Trail
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Spencer Heights |
| Length | 16 mi |
| Elevation Gain | 960 ft |
| Skill Level | Easy to moderate |
| Trailhead Elevation | 8,440 ft |
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