Rocky Mountain National Park's North St Vrain Fire Trail

North St Vrain Fire Trail

Description:
The North St Vrain Fire Trail begins from the Thunder Lake Trail at an elevation of 8,915 feet and climbs to intersect the Thunder Lake Trail again at 9,509 feet. Horses are not permitted on this trail. This trail leaves the Thunder Lake Trail just before the bridge across North St Vrain Creek. It makes gentle climb the northwest through a spruce forest. The trail is very rocky in spots where runoff has occurred. There is nothing in the way of views as the trail parallels North St Vrain Creek at varying distances. There are four backcountry campsites along this trail. If you are heading to Thunder Lake, taking this trail will save about .75 miles.

Features:

Length:	1.34 miles (2.16 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	8,915' - 9,509'
Elevation change:	593 feet
Season:	Jun 1 - Nov 1
Difficulty:	Easy to moderate
Use:	Low to moderate
USGS maps:	Allenspark
Trailheads:	Wild Basin
Restrictions:	No pets are permitted
Suitable for mountain bikes:	No (not permitted)
Suitable for horses:	No

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
The North St Vrain Fire Trail begins from the Thunder Lake Trail. The nearest access to this trail is via the Wild Basin Trailhead. Take Highway 7 south from Estes Park for about 10.8 miles to the Wild Basin Area turnoff (about 3.8 miles south of the Longs Peak access road). Turn right and follow the road for about .4 miles to the Wild Basin Entrance (just past the Wild Basin Lodge). Follow the narrow dirt road for about 2 miles to the Wild Basin Ranger Station and the trailhead. Take the Thunder Lake Trail for about 1.4 miles to the North St Vrain Trail intersection.

There is room for 50 to 60 vehicles at the trailhead and 30 to 40 more at various spots along the road to the trailhead. The road is narrow and not recommended for Rvs. This a popular area and often fills up by mid morning.

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