Colorado's Neota Creek Trail

Neota Creek Trail

Description:

The Neota Creek Trail begins near the northwest boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park and travels west into the Neota Wilderness for about 1.4 miles. This trail is an easy trail to hike but may be difficult to follow. It travels along the southern edge of a large meadow through which Neota Creek flows. The trail winds in and out of the forest but pretty much follows the south edge of the meadow. It can be wet in places and can be almost nonexistent in others.

The beginning of the trail can be difficult to find. There is no sign marking its location. Willows hide the post. It begins from the right side of the Long Draw Road just before reaching the La Poudre Pass turnaround and parking area. The trail makes a gentle climb along the south side of Neota Creek. A portion of the trail along the creek has been badly eroded. An alternate path to the left, away from the stream, should be taken. Neota Creek has a good population of cutthroat trout. Easy access for fishing can be found as the trail travels along the large meadow. The trail turns into a game trail near the west end of the meadow. You must make your own trail if you wish to continue. There are no other trails in the Neota Wilderness. Always carry a good topographic map and know how to use it.
Features:

Length: 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometers)

Elevation Range: 10,191' - 10,378'

Elevation change: 198 feet

Season: June 15 - Oct 15

Difficulty: Easy

Use: Low

USGS maps: Fall River Pass

Trailheads: La Poudre Pass

Restrictions: Pets must be on a leash

Suitable for mountain bikes: No (not permitted in wilderness)

Suitable for horses: Yes

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
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 about 12.5 miles to the trailhead. The trail begins on the right side of the road just before you get to the La Poudre Pass turnaround and parking area.

Length:	1.4 miles (2.25 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	10,191' - 10,378'
Elevation change:	198 feet
Season:	June 15 - Oct 15
Difficulty:	Easy
Use:	Low
USGS maps:	Fall River Pass
Trailheads:	La Poudre Pass
Restrictions:	Pets must be on a leash
Suitable for mountain bikes:	No (not permitted in wilderness)
Suitable for horses:	Yes