Forest Canyon Pass Trail

This west-side outing follows the Ute Trail from Poudre Lake at Milner Pass to Forest Canyon Pass, then returns the same way. The mapped corridor is about 2.33 miles each way, or 4.7 miles round trip. Expect roughly 560–600 feet of climbing; the trailhead is already about 10,760 feet above sea level. Allow around 3 to 4 hours as a planning estimate, since altitude can slow the climb.

From the trailhead, the route skirts Poudre Lake’s south side and climbs through subalpine trees. At about 0.6 mile, turn left at the Mount Ida junction toward Forest Canyon Pass. The grade eases beyond the junction, with small meadows and ponds along the way. Near 1.7 miles, the trail opens above treeline before a short final climb to the pass. Turn around there and retrace your steps. The Ute Trail continues beyond the pass toward the Alpine Visitor Center, but that through-hike is a different itinerary requiring separate transportation.

Forest Canyon Pass sits at about 11,320 feet. From the open tundra, look across Forest Canyon toward Terra Tomah Mountain, Mount Julian, Mount Ida and Marmot Point. Alpine ponds and ridge lines offer strong foreground-to-peak compositions. Small meadows may have wildflowers in mid-August, though bloom timing varies from year to year. Stay on durable tread and give tundra plants room to grow.

Start at the Milner Pass/Poudre Lake parking area beside Trail Ridge Road. The road is seasonal, usually closed from mid-fall into late spring, and weather can shift those dates; check current road conditions before driving. Above treeline, sun, wind, lightning and fast-changing weather leave little shelter. Start early and leave exposed slopes before afternoon storms. Pets are prohibited on park trails. Carry your own food and water; current trailhead services were not confirmed.