Cache La Poudre, North Fork

USGS 06751150 N FK CACHE LA POUDRE R BLW HALLIGAN RES NR VA DALE

At most levels this can be considered a “beginner creek” run, consisting mostly of rock-dodging with a few more discrete drops.  It’s a beautiful wilderness run that will disappoint the hard-core creeker.  If you’re looking for non-stop action, go somewhere else.  If you’re seeking a wilderness run with manageable rapids and beautiful scenery, and don’t mind a mellow paddle out to the reservoir, you’ll like this stretch.

Parts of this watershed burnt in late 2020.

The big event is an uncharacteristic small falls (~6’), about 1/2  of the way through the trip.  The scout is marked by a relatively discrete drop (one of just a few) with a prominent cliff on river left that goes all the way to water level.  Get out on river left by the large pointy rock and climb the outcrop for a look (lots of poison ivy here...).  The falls may have changed slightly, with more flow through the ugly slot.  If it's your first run, you really don't want to miss the scout. At levels over ~ 600(?) the river-right eddy just above the falls gets small, squirrely, and it drains into an ugly slot between two huge boulders so you’ll want to know where you’re going.  About 1,000 (?) the hole and boils into the undercuts at the falls get ugly – be sure to scout and don’t blow the line!!  The portage isn’t fun, and is easier on river-right.

Just below the falls is a notably steep drop with a sharp left at the bottom, immediately followed by two fun play holes and a sunny rock.  Shortly beyond this you’ll enter the fence zone and a mellow paddle out.  Be heads-up for several fences (4+) that will require portages at high water or adept fence-evading at lower levels.

The landowners at the bridge by Trails End have mellowed, and they’ve been downright friendly the last couple years.  At the put in, please be polite, respectful and modest and don’t screw this up.  Think Bailey and float through the Trails

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