Hiking – RMNP - Upper Beaver Meadows Loop

From the Upper Beaver Meadows trailhead in RMNP, this 5-mile loop hike provides outstanding panoramic views of Moraine Park and Longs Peak.  Beginning in a clockwise direction, this hike begins in a large meadow and reaches an area with views of where the Fern Lake fire burned before ascending into a pine forest.  At 1.6 miles, the trail connects with the Ute-Beaver Mountain Trail traveling north through aspens toward Deer Mountain, reaching a high point after 935' gain.  We will enjoy a nice lunch break before continuing on this trail, heading east and south, crossing Beaver Brook, before completing this loop and returning to the trailhead.  

There are 3 meeting locations, depending upon where you are coming from:  1) JJ's Country Store (SE edge), 4015 S. Taft Hill Rd., Ft. Collins at 7:30 a.m.,  2) JAX parking lot (SE edge), 2665 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland at 7:45 a.m., OR 3) Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, 1000 U.S. Hwy. 36, Estes Park, (west end of parking lot) at 8:45 a.m.   Restrooms available.   From here, we will carpool to the Beaver Meadows trailhead inside RMNP.  We have timed entry permits for 3 vehicles for the 9-11 a.m. entry period.

PLEASE let Anita Wright know which meeting location you will be at in advance (email adwright2001@yahoo.com, call, or text 970-222-5920).