Poudre Falls

By denver-gazette September 2, 2016 | updated 10 years ago

Poudre Falls. Photo Credit: earth2murph – OutThere Colorado.

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Things To Do

Hiking Sightseeing

This roadside waterfall is worth the stop. Located about 55 miles west of Fort Collins and 50 miles east of Walden on Poudre Canyon Highway / CO 14, Poudre Falls is hidden in a narrow canyon carved by the Cache La Poudre River, west of the highway. From Fort Collins, look for a small sign at the overlook on the right side of the road. Social trails lead to the river, but take care on slippery rocks and sandy trails to avoid accidents and do not try to enter the water, which gushes through the narrow gulch at an alarming volume and speed. Bring a camera and leave nothing behind.

Pro Tips

Poudre Canyon Highway is a gorgeous drive, but a long distance from most metro areas of the state. If you go, add other stops to your itinerary such as Colorado State Forest State Park located 19 miles east of Walden; Lake Agnes, which is located 28 miles east of Walden; or Cameron Pass, 30 miles east of Walden.

Many seasonal campgrounds exist along the highway and at the nearby state parks including Lake Agnes. Bring a checkbook and a pen to pay for day passes and camping permits at the self-serve kiosks.

This is a popular area for wildlife so be aware of elk and moose along the road and do not approach them on your hikes.

Recommended season(s): Year-round.

—Susan Joy Paul

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