|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
![]()
Reporter |
Summary: The North Boundary trail takes you up over a saddle between the Cow Creek Drainage and West Creek. The first part of the hike is somewhat steep and unremarkable, although there are nice views from the top of the saddle, and the open area along west creek is quite lovely. Once you cross West Creek, bear left on the spur that take you to the falls. West Creek itself is quite lovely, with numerous cascades and interesting fallen trees across the stream. The falls themselves are the real payoff for this hike. The lower falls come roaring down a shoot, while the upper falls are set in a amphitheater made of multicolored rocks, and the stream dropping straight down into a lovely pool. What a great setting! Trailhead: From highway 34 in Estes Park, follow MacGregor Avenue North for about a mile, then turn right onto Devils Gulch Road at the entrance to MacGregor Ranch. Follow Devils Gulch Road for about 4 miles, turning left onto the dirt McGraw Ranch Road. Follow this road a little over 2 miles and park at the turnouts just before the entrance to McGraw ranch. You need to walk past the ranch buildings to reach the North Boundary trailhead. (Lat:40.42979 Lon:-105.50068) Trail Guides for West Creek Falls: RMNP - Best Easy Day Hikes by Kent Dannen and Donna Dannen (Globe Pequot Press) RMNP - Panoramic Hiking Map by Unknown (Trail Tracks) Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall User Groups: Hikers, Horses Ranger Contact: RMNP Information (970) 586-1206 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted 104 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review This hike is a a "real" hike. Let me warn first to new to this hike that it's the most "loneliest" trail I have ever seen. The Cow Creek trailhead doesn't have any info about West Creek Falls, but follow the trails given here and you'll definitely reach the falls. Remember one thing: you have to climb the mountain to the top and then you need to go down the all the way down to the other side of the mountain. It's difficult for the beginners and seems like same for kids. We din't find anyone on the entire way or even at the falls. It's very steep while climbing the mountain and going down to the valley(steeper), but easier after that. We did not see any animals on the rout, though we were very positive about it :( In short... Excellent Excellent hike. Took my wife and children, aged 11 and 7. Was worried about the 7 year old, but she was a trooper and made it! Did not see another soul on the trial or at the falls, which was fantastic. Some technical hiking due to loose rock, but overall, a moderate hike for adults. The falls are well worth it. Fantastic hike. Believe the distance is more than 2 miles one way and the difficulty rating should be greater as hiked the Bridal Veil Falls two days earlier and this is more difficult. Don't recommend for the beginner! Believe the distance is more than 2 miles one way & rating should have a more difficult rating as hiked Bridal Veil Falls 2 days before and this trail is more difficult. Not for the beginning hiker! This was my first time hiking this trail and just recently getting back into hiking, so I the switch backs were a little difficult at times. Would do it again, for I love hiking to waterfalls and this has that to offer. Great exercise and a place of peacefulness and a place to think Next time when I have more time I'd like to go to where the North Boundary trail ends and see what is beyond it. A nice woodsy hike with lots of up & down, great exercise! Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Larimer County Hiking, Larimer County Trails, Larimer County Hikes |