Old Fall River Road

4.5/5 (18 reviews)
Estes Park, Colorado (Larimer County)
Last Updated: 07/01/2022

Trail Information

Highlights

Old Fall River Road, or Dog's Trail by the Native Arapaho, is a historic roadway crossing through Rocky Mountain National Park. It was built between 1913 and 1920 by 38 convicts from the Colorado state penitentiary, resulting in it being the very first motor route to cross the park. Following the construction of Trail Ridge Road in 1932, Old Fall River Road was designated a one-way route and continues to be today. Your journey up Old Fall River Road and around the slopes of Mt. Chapin, will take you through three of the life zones, or ecosystems, that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. Awarding you one of the best journeys through the park you will have, in my opinion. You will not forget your journey along this historic road. So take your time, drive it slow, and get out and enjoy what it has to offer.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.5/5 (18)
6550
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 09/11/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

A scenic alternative route to the Alpine Visitor Center in RMNP. Road is in decent shape and is narrow in spots, some minor potholes and washouts to contend with as well. A lot of bikers and hikers out on this beautiful day. Make sure to stop and take the short walk to Chasm Falls, it's beautiful and highly worth it.
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 07/31/2022

Beautiful dirt road through the park and a wonderful alternative to the main road up and over to the Visitors Center on top of the mountains. A Prius could do this pretty much but it is still worth the drive if your in the park. Word of warning is to have your camping figured out because it is very difficult to find a spot without prior planning.
1900
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 07/10/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

A very scenic drive, with a lot of vehicles on this road. There are a few trails along the way for hiking, and a couple of spots to pullover for photo taking.
Official Crew
96600
Open
Visited: 07/01/2022

Road is now open per the park service.
Seasonal Closure
Rated 3/5
Visited: 05/15/2022

This road is closed seasonally in 2022 until July through September. Just a small window in the year to see this trail and sights.

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