Fish Creek Trail #993

The Fish Creek Trail is located within the Comanche Park Wilderness within the Roosevelt National Forest. Like the many trails surrounding and intersecting with it, Fish Creek is challenging but do-able for most people and their dogs. Its altitude at 9000+ feet is something to consider in the case of humans or canines with heart or lung problems. Frequent rests and plenty of water are recommended. 

The trail follows the banks of Fish Creek southwest from the trailhead, which you will find about 2 miles past the Tom Bennett Campground, and where there is limited parking. The trailhead doesn't offer amenities like water or restrooms, although water is available from the creek. As it's in a wilderness park, you'll need to follow Leave No Trace rules including collecting your dog's waste in a bag and carrying it out. Human waste can be buried some distance from the trail. The trail is not well-marked in some spots, but stone cairns appear here and there, along with blazes on some of the trees to keep you oriented.

This trail is best hiked from April to October, although you'll likely encounter deep snow pack at this elevation into June. This is a pawsome snowshoeing trail when the snowpack is deep enough to avoid hitting some of the many boulders alongside and on it. Furtastic views of Comanche Peak and Fall Mountain will reward your considerable effort as you walk and climb through forests of lodgepole pines, spruce and aspens. Meadows await with colorful wildflowers and many birds will serenade you through the trees. Eagles and hawks soar above you in search of their next meal on the ground or in the creek below.

Whether you and your furry bestie choose the Fish Creek Trail for backpacking or day hiking, the challenge and scenery will become long-lasting memories! This is Colorado wilderness hiking at its best!