Routt National Forest's Katherine Trailhead sits in forested terrain near a lake, managed by the US Forest Service as an established campground. Access is rough, so high-clearance vehicles are worth considering before the trip. No pets are permitted. Nearby trailhead camps include Lone Pine North Trailhead and Lone Pine South Trailhead, giving hikers multiple staging points along this corridor. Katherine Trailhead suits campers who prioritize trail access over amenities and can handle a rugged approach.
Description
Designated trailhead with access to trails into Mount Zirkel Wilderness. No developed facilities. Setting is managed forest area. Timberline is at approximately 10,500 feet elevation. The Lake Katherine Trail is easy to follow, through few sections are fairly steep. This trail is difficult for horses. Campsites are scarce along the trail and particularly at Lake Katherine. This is a very popular trail, so opportunity for solitude is low. This trail lies within the Mt Zirkel Wilderness. Please refer to the Wilderness Regulations. The wilderness is closed to motorized and mechanized vehicles. This trailhead is managed by the Parks Ranger District.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsKatherine Trailhead is located in Colorado near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland
Directions
From Walden. Drive west on Hwy 14 approximately 1/4 mile and take County Road 12W heading west. Drive approximately 5 miles and take County Road 7 heading north for approximately 2 1/2 miles. Turn left on County Road 12W. After driving approximately 4 miles take the left fork heading west on County Road 16. Drive approximately 7 miles. The road will turn into Forest Road 640 taking you to the Katherine Trailhead.
Coordinates
40.74991243 N
106.61261682 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 27 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 2 hrs 44 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 3 hrs 10 min from Greeley, CO
- 3 hrs 28 min from Boulder, CO
