Routt National Forest's South Fork Trailhead campground sits in north-central Colorado near Rand, managed by the US Forest Service. The terrain mixes forested cover with open areas and runs close to both a creek and a river. No pets are permitted. Access involves rough road conditions, so high-clearance vehicles are worth considering before the trip. Nearby, Jack Creek Trailhead and Pines Campground provide alternative bases in the same corridor. Come prepared with all supplies, as services in this remote stretch of the forest are limited.
Description
This trail lies within the Never Summer Wilderness in the Troublesome Area. Please refer to the Wilderness Regulations. The wilderness is closed to motorized and mechanized vehicles. The South Fork Trail climbs gradually along the South Fork of the Michigan River through the old-growth spruce-fir forests. It occasionally crosses an open meadow along the creek. Views are limited by the trees. Within ½ mile of Baker Pass, the trail breaks into the open and ascends rapidly. The spectacular scenery of the Never Summer Mountains and the Continental Divide may be seen from Baker Pass. It is managed by the Parks Ranger District.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSouth Fork Trailhead is located in Colorado near Rand
Directions
Directions from Walden: Head east on Highway14 for 22 miles to Gould. Take County Road 21 (Forest Road 740) south 4 miles to the Pines Campground. Continue beyond the Pines Campground on road 740 to the intersection with NFSRs 760 and 770. Take the middle route (760) and continue south and then east for about 2 additional miles. At this point, the road becomes considerably rougher. The road requires a four-wheel drive vehicle and high clearance. Do not continue if you are not sure your vehicle is capable of difficult stream and mud crossing conditions! Follow the road another 2 miles to the South Fork Trailhead.
Coordinates
40.4432004 N
105.97967636 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
- 1 hr 58 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 2 hrs 23 min from Greeley, CO
- 2 hrs 41 min from Boulder, CO
- 2 hrs 52 min from Denver, CO
