North Canadian Trail

The North Canadian Trail runs about 4.1 miles through the Canadian River country of State Forest State Park, following the North Canadian River drainage up into the Medicine Bow Range. It starts on the east side as a two-track road for the first three-quarters of a mile, then narrows to dirt singletrack and leans west and north into the timber. Per COTREX it's open to hikers, mountain bikers and stock, with dogs allowed on leash; motorized travel isn't permitted here.

This is unhurried high-country walking — lodgepole and spruce, the sound of the river working its way down the valley, and the long shoulders of the Medicine Bows above you. Because it climbs steadily into the mountains, expect a real grade and lingering snow into early summer. State Forest is a Colorado state park, so bring a valid parks pass, and check current trail and road conditions with the park office before you go.

Trail Facts

Getting There

State Forest State Park sits along CO-14 west of Cameron Pass, near Gould in Jackson County. The North Canadian Trail runs through the park's Canadian River area; a valid Colorado State Parks pass is required. Confirm the trailhead and current road access on the park map or with the park office before heading out.

Know Before You Go

• Open to hikers, bikes and horses. COTREX lists it for hiking, mountain biking and stock; motorized use isn't allowed, and dogs must be leashed.
• Part of the State Forest network. It threads the park's Canadian River country in the Medicine Bow Range, near the Canadian River Loop trails.
• State Parks pass required. State Forest is a Colorado state park — carry a valid pass.
• Check conditions. This is high country; snow lingers and the dirt turns soft in spring — confirm current conditions with State Forest State Park.