East Portal Trailhead

This popular TH provides hiking access to many favorite destinations in the James Peak Wilderness including Crater Lakes, Heart Lake, Forest Lakes, the Continental Divide Trail, Rollins Pass, Rogers Pass, and others.

Large parking areas may fill early on weekends.  There are vault toilets available at the parking area. The TH is next to the historic Moffat Tunnel, which allows train traffic under the Continental Divide and brings water from the Colorado River watershed on the Western Slope of the Divide to the Front Range.

  • Suitable Activities: Backcountry Nordic Skiing, Backpacking, Climbing, Hiking, Snowshoeing
  • Climbing Category: Water Ice Climb
  • Seasons: Year-round
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    James Peak Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
Activities
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Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • East Portal TH - Crater Lakes
  • East Portal TH - Heart Lake
  • East Portal TH - Forest Lakes
  • East Portal TH - Continental Divide Trail
  • East Portal TH - Rollins Pass
  • East Portal TH - Rogers Pass
  • East Portal TH - Continental Divide Loop
  • East Portal TH - Arapaho Lakes
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