Place · 2.2 mi away
Overview
La Poudre Pass Lake is a small, quiet subalpine lake tucked just south of La Poudre Pass on the Continental Divide. It’s widely noted as the headwaters of the Colorado River, which makes this a rare spot where you can literally stand steps from the hydrologic split—west toward the Colorado River, east toward the Cache la Poudre. The setting is mellow and scenic rather than dramatic, perfect for a low-key, meaningful stop.
What You'll See
Expect willows, wetlands, and broad meadows framed by the Never Summer side of the Divide. The lake itself is modest, but the story it tells—where the Colorado begins—is the real draw. Elk frequent these headwaters habitats, and the area’s soft ground can make sections of trail damp or muddy after moisture.
Getting There
Most visitors approach via Long Draw Road to the La Poudre Pass Trailhead. From there, it’s a short, mostly flat walk to the pass sign and the lake just inside the park. The road is unpaved and seasonal—typically opening after Memorial Day and closing around mid-October—so timing matters. The small lot holds roughly a dozen vehicles and has a vault toilet; there’s no running water, so arrive self-sufficient.
Easy Add-On: The Grand Ditch
A historic water-diversion corridor crosses the pass area. Its maintenance road doubles as an easy walking route with big views toward the Never Summer Mountains. If you want more time on your feet without extra effort, wander the ditch road out-and-back for a longer, gentle day.
Wildlife
Subalpine meadows and willow flats here are classic elk habitat. Start early if you’re hoping for sightings and solitude; this is also when the light is softer and the area is quietest.
Best Time to Visit
- Late spring through mid-fall, when Long Draw Road is open.
- Mornings for cooler temps, better wildlife chances, and easier parking.
- After wet weather, expect muddy tread—plan footwear accordingly.
Need-to-Know
- If you continue south from the pass into the park, you’ll need a valid park pass.
- Trails can be soft and wet; waterproof footwear pays off.
- This is a headwaters zone—treat the place gently and stick to established paths.
Don’t Mix It Up
La Poudre Pass Lake (headwaters of the Colorado River) is different from Poudre Lake at Milner Pass along Trail Ridge Road. They’re separate spots on the Divide with similar names but very different access.
Pros
- Stand at the headwaters of the Colorado River
- Easy, mostly flat walk from the seasonal trailhead
- Optional Grand Ditch stroll with wide-open views
Cons
- Seasonal dirt-road access that typically closes by mid-October
- Limited parking and occasionally wet, muddy sections
Tips
- Check Long Draw Road’s seasonal status before you commit to the drive.
- Wear waterproof boots—willow-lined stretches can be muddy and wet.
- Bring all the water you need; there’s only a vault toilet at the trailhead.
- If you continue into the park from the pass, you’ll need a valid park pass.
- For parking and wildlife, start early and consider adding the Grand Ditch walk.
