Arapaho National Forest – North-Central Colorado | Biking, Boating, Camping, Hiking & Fishing

Arapaho National Forest contains more than 1100 square miles of recreation. It’s located in north-central Colorado, stretching from south of I-70 to north near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Most Denver residents will utilize the Arapaho National Forest the most. It’s located just west of the capitol city with access points off I-70. Arapaho Basin Ski Area is located within the Arapaho National Forest. Guanella Pass is one of the post popular scenic drives and camping spots in the region.

Main Attractions

Echo Lake is a high-alpine lake located at the entrance to the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Camping, fishing and hiking are the main activities. An outstanding scenic byway, Guanella Pass is accessible nearly year round. From Georgetown to Grant, this 2WD road takes about an hour. Situated between Empire and Winter Park, Berthoud Pass is popular for biking, hiking and backcountry skiing. Snowmobiling can be found in nearby Jonas Pass.

Located in Grand County, Vasquez Ridge is a prime place to car camp and hike very close to Winter Park. There is also a small fishing pond and various OHV trails. Its neighbor Saint Louis Creek is a great area by Fraser for hiking and biking. To the north of that lies Stillwater Pass. It holds dispersed camping and multi-use trails close to Lake Granby and Grand Lake. The Arapaho National Rec Area is home to 5 great lakes north of Granby on Highway 34. There are numerous campgrounds and trails to choose from.

Activities: Biking, Boating, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Picnicking, OHV, Scenic Drives, Winter Rec – Cross Country Skiing, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing

Read about the Camping near Georgetown and Idaho Springs.

Read about the Camping near Granby and Grand Lake.

Read about the Camping near Kremmling, Parshall and Hot Sulphur Springs.