Rocky Mountain National Park's Chapin Creek Trail

Chapin Creek Trail

Description:
The Chapin Creek Trail begins at the Chapin Pass Trailhead on Old Fall River Road at an elevation of 11,120 feet. It makes a short climb to Chapin Pass at 11,250 feet and descends along Chapin Creek to its intersection with the Poudre River Trail at 10,275 feet. Except for the first .7 miles, this trail is relatively easy to hike. Horses are not permitted on this trail.

Many people use this trail to access Mount Chapin, Mount Chiquita, and Ypsilon Mountain from Chapin Pass. The trail makes a short moderate climb over some water-bar steps. It soon intersects the climber's access trail to Mount Chapin. From here it makes a moderate to steep descent into the valley to the north. It travels through dense spruce forest as it winds its way down to a large meadow. Watch for elk in a few clearings along the way and in the meadow below. It is cross-country travel from the edge of the meadow for about a mile. Your best bet is to stick to the west edge of the meadow. It can be quite wet in spots. You'll pick up trails that travel in and out of the trees. These trails become more distinct about half way down the large meadow and are easier to follow.

At some points, the trail travels through the forest and eventually emerges near the trail to the Chapin Creek Group Campsite. From here it is easy to follow through the meadow to the Poudre River. After crossing the river over a log footbridge, it is a short distance to the Poudre River Trail.

Features:

Length:	3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	10,275' - 11,247'
Elevation change:	1,127 feet
Season:	Jun 15 - Oct 1
Difficulty:	Easy to moderate
Use:	Low to moderate
USGS maps:	Trail Ridge
Trailheads:	Chapin Pass
Restrictions:	No pets are permitted
Suitable for mountain bikes:	No (not permitted)
Suitable for horses:	No

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
The nearest trailhead to this trail is the Chapin Pass Trailhead on the Old Fall River Road. Take Highway 34 north from the Fall River Entrance to the Endovalley turnoff. Travel 8.4 miles on Old Fall River Road to the trailhead. The trailhead has room for about 10 to 12 vehicles on the south side of the road. Over night parking is not permitted without prior permission.

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