We’ve spent the last 5 days exploring the headwaters of the Colorado by foot and packraft. Through 50 miles of hiking and four interviews, we have learned about Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park, the source of the upper Colorado River.
Standing at La Poudre Pass… the Colorado headwaters are on the left, the Grand Ditch (which diverts water to the Front Range) is on the right. Photo by Beth.
Waterfall near base camp. Photo by David.We decided to hike down from La Poudre Pass and up a different tributary, North Inlet, for a few days.
The Rocky Mountain National Park alpine. Photo by Will.
After five or so miles of bushwhacking through downed trees, we got up near treeline.
The expedition begins. Photo by Will.
Our destination was Lake Powell, an alpine lake. From here it’s over 400 miles to Lake Powell (the other one).
Will packrafting on a creek that was mostly too shallow and filled with logs. Photo by David.
More packrafting. Photo by David.
Grand Lake. Photo by David.
Everyone we’ve met has been extremely helpful, kind, and interesting. We slept on Jane and Richard’s (two local landowners) beach last night, with a great view of the lake.
Moose. Photo by Will.
Comments
when will you guys be updating the map and stuff. here to help if I can. and is there a time to get on the river with you guys or at least cook up a pork shoulder to give to you…
Tom McMurray