Cirque Meadows Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
269 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Cirque Meadows Hike is a stunning woodland adventure through the Comanche Peak Wilderness. Hike through the forestlands, past a waterfall, along a stream and to an open meadow. This scenic adventure deserves to be savoured, consider camping at one of seven backcountry campsites that dot the meadows.

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Route Description for Cirque Meadows Hike

The Cirque Meadows Hike is an incredibly stunning forestland adventure. Travel along Fall Creek, past small waterfalls, through aspen groves and up to the Cirque Meadows and campsites. From the meadows enjoy expansive vistas of the snow-dusted Mummy Range. This adventure is woefully scenic, but it is a butt burner. Climb up the gradual grade to the grassy plains. Note there have been many bear sightings along this route, consider a bear bell to deter any unwanted visitors. Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay energized as you track through the wilderness.

Embark on your Cirque Meadows Hike from the Emmaline Lake Trailhead. You can drive up Forest Development Road 200 to the true trailhead, but it is a rough and rugged road. We suggest parking prior to the FDR 200 and hiking up the backcountry road. Hike to the true Emmaline Lake Trailhead and track southwest beneath the tree shade. Shortly after your departure there will be a set of intersecting paths, ignore them and maintain along the trail. Trek along the woodland path and notice the Colorado State University Mountain Campus in the east.

Soon the path will intersect with Fall Creek. Hike along the babbling creek as the route weaves you between tree coverage and exposed trail. Eventually you will arrive at the Cirque Meadows. Revel in the expansive mountain vistas from the meadows. See the Mummy Range in the south and set up shop at one of the campsites if you are spending the night. Enjoy the scenic meadows, and when you are ready to return, backtrack along the route to the trailhead and parking lot.

Getting to the Cirque Meadows Hike Trailhead

The Cirque Meadows Hike is located off Forest Development Road 145 at the end of FDR200, an old dirt road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Designated Backcountry Campsites

  • When to do

    June-September

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Cirque Meadows Hike Elevation Graph

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