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    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
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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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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    Cirque Meadows Hike Reviews

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