North Fork Trail #1309

The North Fork Trail #1309 is generally rated as easy to moderate. It features a steady climb through a forested landscape, closely following the North Fork of the Purgatoire River. You'll encounter two creek crossings, typically manageable with logs or rocks, and pass by a pond and old cabin ruins. A significant highlight is a large, scenic meadow about one-third of a mile long after the second creek crossing, offering beautiful mountain vistas.

A hike to the scenic meadow and back usually takes between 1.5 to 2 hours. If you complete the full 4.5-mile trail, expect it to take approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The primary trailhead is conveniently located adjacent to the Purgatoire Campground. This campground offers amenities such as restrooms and potable water. An alternative trailhead can be found near Blue Lake Campground.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. As it is located within the San Isabel National Forest, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste.

Generally, there are no entrance fees required to access the San Isabel National Forest for day use activities like hiking the North Fork Trail #1309. However, if you plan to camp at developed campgrounds like Purgatoire Campground, fees may apply. Always check the official USDA Forest Service website for the latest regulations and any specific permits that might be required for certain activities or areas.

The trail is best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall, when the path is clear of snow and the weather is pleasant for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. This allows for comfortable creek crossings and full enjoyment of the meadow and mountain views.

The trail follows the headwaters of the North Fork of the Purgatoire River, offering opportunities for trout fishing. The forested areas are good for bird watching, and you might spot various other wildlife common to the San Isabel National Forest. Notable natural features include the river itself, two creek crossings, a pond, and a beautiful, expansive meadow.

Yes, with its easy to moderate rating and steady climb rather than extremely steep sections, the North Fork Trail #1309 is suitable for beginners and families. The option to hike to the meadow and back provides a shorter, rewarding experience, while the full trail offers a bit more challenge without being overly strenuous.

While the main trail is well-defined, it does offer connections to other paths. You can link up with Trail #1394 (though it can be faint) and eventually connect to a 4WD road. This road can lead to Trinchera Peak or down to Bear and Blue Lakes, providing options for longer, more challenging excursions for those with good route-finding skills.

Hikers will discover a touch of history along the trail with the ruins of an old cabin located near the pond. This adds an interesting historical element to the natural beauty of the hike.

The North Fork Trail #1309 is primarily an out-and-back trail. You follow the path along the river and through the forest to your desired turnaround point, such as the large meadow, and then return the same way.