Old Fall River Road

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4.5/5 (22 reviews)
Estes Park, Colorado (Larimer County)
Last Updated: 12/07/2023
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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.

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Trail Reviews

4.5/5 (22)
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Official Crew
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58400
Seasonal Closure
Visited: 12/01/2023

Trail is closed per dates on MVUM.
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2350
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 09/12/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This is a good trail to run if you're in Rocky Mountain National Park. It has beautiful views and a good chance to see some wildlife (we saw a good number of elk including a large bull). It's a bit bumpy in sections, and there are a few small potholes here and there, but overall it's easy enough a Prius can do it.
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Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 08/01/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This road hardly qualifies as off-road but it is a must for nature and wildlife lovers. We ran this at 7:30 in the morning and were treated to a variety of wildlife. I would think the trail gets busy later in the day and on weekends.
Trail Review: Old Fall River Road - Ken Magdic
Trail Review: Old Fall River Road - Ken Magdic
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Official Crew
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2200
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 07/01/2023

Today is Opening day. Just remember, Rocky Mountain National Park is still a timed entry.
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10300
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.
Trail Review: Old Fall River Road - Ray

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