Long Draw Road

4.7/5 (10 reviews)
Walden, Colorado (Larimer County)
Last Updated: 12/01/2021

Trail Information

Highlights

One could consider this the origin of the Grand Canyon. Long Draw Road leads to where the Colorado River begins its magnificent 1450-mile-long journey through the southwest United States and Mexico. Long Draw Road lies along the northern edge of the Rocky Mountain National Park at the continental divide in north central Colorado. Beautiful and rugged mountain views are abundant as you travel near three different wilderness areas, the Comanche Peak, the Never Summer, and the Neota Wilderness. At the road’s end, there is plenty of room to park and then hike about one half mile to the headwaters of the Colorado River and a little further to the ghost mining town of Lulu City. Make sure you have your camera along for this adventure.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.7/5 (10)
1900
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 07/02/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Very scenic on the drive that lead up to USFS 156 and once you’re actually on the trail, the scenery does not disappoint. While not technical, the trail crisscross river, burnt trees, forest and multiple campsites. Take the option trail, it’s worth it if you have the time. The single track, while not difficult offers a nice break from the wide service road.
Open
Visited: 12/03/2021

Per the Canyon Lakes Ranger Service, this road is still open. Some designated camping sites are closed however.
Official Crew
106700
Seasonal Closure
Visited: 12/01/2021

Closed for the season! See you in 2022!
Official Crew
39450
Temporary Closure
Visited: 07/26/2021

Long Draw Road is temporarily closed while the USFS completes some aerial mulching operations. The mulching project is to place soil stabilizing mulch in the area to help reduce erosion and flash flood potential. The area along this road was hit hard by the Cameron Peak fire during the summer of 2020 and mitigation efforts are underway to help restoration. This road should be open soon.
Official Crew
39450
Seasonal Closure
Visited: 06/15/2021

Although this trail is scheduled to be open now, the trail remains closed by the US Forest Service because of damage from last year's Cameron Peak Fire. It is not yet known when, or if, this trail will be opened this season for motor vehicles. We will continue to check with the US Forest Service and post details as they become available.

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