Thunder Pass Trail
Description:
The Thunder Pass
Trail begins from the Grand Ditch Trail at an elevation of 10,215 feet and
climbs through Thunder Pass to its intersection with the Michigan Lakes Trail
at 11,260 feet. The trail begins about 3.2 miles from the Never Summer Trailhead
just beyond the ditch maintenance camp. After crossing the ditch over a wooden
bridge, it makes a moderate climb through a spruce forest paralleling a small
stream. The trail levels off as it approaches the Box Canyon campsites and
the large meadow just beyond. It crosses the meadow and climbs up through
a mature spruce stand. It breaks out onto the tundra after about a quarter-mile
and begins the climb to the pass over some long switchbacks. You'll reach
the pass after traveling about 1.5 miles. The view from the pass is quite
spectacular. From here the trail descends across open ground to Michigan Lakes.
Features:
| Length: |
2.1 miles (3.4 kilometers) |
|
Elevation Range:
|
10,215' - 11,310' |
| Elevation change: |
1,344 feet |
| Season: |
Jun 1 - Nov 1 |
| Difficulty: |
Moderate |
| Use: |
Low to moderate |
| USGS maps: |
Fall River Pass |
| Trailheads: |
Never Summer |
| Restrictions: |
No pets are permitted
|
| Suitable for mountain bikes: |
No (not permitted) |
| Suitable for horses: |
Yes |
Vicinity Map
Altitude Profile
Directions:
The
nearest trailhead to this trail is the Never Summer Trailhead on the Long
Draw Road. Take Highway 287 north from Fort Collins to La Porte. Continue
on 287 north to Highway 14. Travel west on 14 for 52 miles to the Long Draw
Road. Turn left and travel 12.5 miles to the trailhead at the end of the road.
The Thunder Pass Trail is about 3.2 miles from the trailhead.
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