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North Fork South Platte River - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About North Fork South Platte River

The North Fork of the South Platte River is one of the main tributaries of the South Platte River in Colorado. It originates in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, near the town of Grant, and flows for approximately 80 miles before joining the South Platte River near the town of Deckers. The North Fork is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and hiking, and is home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout.
Address : North Fork South Platte River, Colorado, USA

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Things to Do at North Fork South Platte River

North Fork South Platte River is a beautiful place to visit all year round. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and forests are a sight to behold, and in the summer, the hiking trails are perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty. There are also plenty of things to do in the park, regardless of the season. In the winter, visitors can go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, and in the summer, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. There are also fishing opportunities available in both the river and nearby lakes. No matter what time of year it is, North Fork South Platte River is a great place to explore and experience all that Colorado has to offer.


Top Activities Near North Fork South Platte River

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History of North Fork South Platte River

The North Fork South Platte River is a tributary of the South Platte River that begins in Park County, Colorado. The river flows for approximately 30 miles before joining the South Platte River near the town of Bailey. The North Fork South Platte River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, and is also home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout.The history of the North Fork South Platte River dates back to the early 19th century, when it was first settled by fur trappers and explorers. In 1858, gold was discovered in the river near present-day Denver, sparking a gold rush that brought thousands of prospectors to the area. The North Fork South Platte River played a significant role in the development of Colorado, and today it remains an important part of the state’s identity.


Best Time to Visit North Fork South Platte River

The best time to visit the North Fork South Platte River in Park County, Colorado is from late May to early June. At this time of year, the river is full of fish and the scenery is beautiful. The area is also relatively quiet, as most tourists have not yet arrived for the summer season. 


Tips for Visiting North Fork South Platte River

  1. The North Fork is a popular spot for trout fishing, so be sure to bring your tackle and license.
  2. The river is fed by several creeks and streams, so there are plenty of places to explore.
  3. Hiking is a great way to see the scenery, but be sure to stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
  4. camping is allowed in designated areas only, so be sure to check with the Park County Sheriff's office before setting up camp.
  5. Make sure you have enough food and water. There are no stores in the park, so you'll need to bring everything you need with you.
  6. Stay on designated trails. Help protect the park by staying on designated trails and not shortcuts or off-trail areas.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About North Fork South Platte River

  1. The river flows through several small towns, including Alma, Fairplay, and Bailey and It is a popular destination for fly fishing and whitewater rafting.
  2. The river has been designated as a Wild and Scenic River by the United States Forest Service.
  3. The river is also a major source of irrigation water for agriculture in Colorado's Front Range region.
  4. The North Fork South Platte River is one of the most popular recreation areas in Colorado, with over 3 million people visiting each year.
  5. The North Fork South Platte River originates in the Mosquito Range, near the Continental Divide.
  6. The river then turns southeast and flows through Commerce City before joining the South Platte River near Brighton.
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at North Fork South Platte River

We would recommend spending at least a full day here in order to really experience all that the park has to offer. 


How to Reach North Fork South Platte River

To reach the North Fork of the South Platte River, park county, colorado, take Highway 285 south from Denver for about an hour. After reaching Pine Junction, continue south on Highway 285 for another 13 miles until you reach Bailey. From Bailey, take County Road 43 west for about 3.5 miles until you reach the river.


Entrance Fee of North Fork South Platte River

There is no entrance fee to explore the park, there are some costs associated with activities such as camping and fishing.


Opening Hours of North Fork South Platte River

The river is open to the public from dawn until dusk and be aware of the season. 


Attractions Near North Fork South Platte River

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Kenosha PassKenosha Pass is a mountain pass that traverses the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. The pass is located in Park County, west of Denver and northeast of the town of Fairplay. Kenosha Pass Summit is 11,539 feet (3,513 m) above sea level, making it one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado. The pass is named for the Kenosha Mountains, a subrange of the Rockies that it crosses. Kenosha Pass is a popular recreation spot for hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing.
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Webster PassWebster Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The pass is located in the Front Range, south of the town of Breckenridge and north of the town of Alma. It is traversed by State Highway 9. The pass sits at an elevation of 12,095 feet and provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The area around Webster Pass is popular for hiking, camping, and fishing. The pass is also popular with skiers and snowboarders in the winter.
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Geneva Creek Iron FensThe Geneva Creek Iron Fens are a unique ecological feature of the central Rocky Mountains. Formed by the interaction of groundwater with iron-rich rocks, the high iron content gives the fens its distinctive red color. The fens are home to a diverse array of plants and animals. The area is also an important source of drinking water for humans and wildlife.
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Lost Creek WildernessThis is a beautiful and popular spot in Park County. It's known for its scenic hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and crystal-clear lakes. The area is also popular with backpackers and campers, who come to enjoy the solitude and tranquility of the wilderness. While the Lost Creek Wilderness is a great place to explore, it's important to be prepared before heading into the backcountry. Be sure to bring plenty of food and water, a map and compass, and appropriate clothing for the weather.
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Square Top MountainSquare Top Mountain is the 111th highest peak in Colorado. Situated in Colorado's Front Range, near Guanella Pass, Square Top lies midway between the 14er duos of Evans-Bierstadt and Grays-Torreys. Overshadowed by these loftier neighbors, Square Top attracts relatively little traffic from alpine travelers.
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Georgia PassGeorgia Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. The pass is located in Summit County, on the border between the towns of Breckenridge and Alma. Georgia Pass rises to an elevation of 12,095 feet, making it one of the highest passes in the state. The pass provides access to the beautiful summit county area, which is known for its ski resorts, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation. Georgia Pass is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Discover More Attractions in Park County, Home of North Fork South Platte River


Location of North Fork South Platte River


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