Trail Description

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The Ceran St. Vrain Trail closely follows a two mile stretch of South St. Vrain Creek, whose origin lies with Isabelle Glacier atop the Continental Divide some 10+ miles away and 3,700’ above. The trail is named for Ceran St. Vrain (1802 - 1870), a fur trader, politician and settler who established several trading posts and military forts along this creek and the South Platte River.

This mild trail leads through pristine upper-montane forests, an inclusive ecological transition zone of lodgepole pine, spruce, fir and aspen. The riparian corridor it traces supports bigtooth maple, thin leaf alder, box elder, willow, and a busy leafy understory that together yield brilliant autumn colors. Summer wildflowers thrive along the creek, most notably columbine, wild rose and the prized Fairy Slipper Orchid. Visitors will enjoy good trail conditions, gentle grades, easy stream access, desirable backcountry camping locations and excellent fishing opportunities.

The trail begins over a solidly built bridge with good up and down-stream views. Once over it remains on the creek’s west side, heading north and undulating with little difficulty and a net elevation loss to its unofficial terminus at the 801-252 Jeep road split (1.92 miles : 8,105’). The trail, generally well-padded from thick layers of fallen pine needles, negotiates a few high narrow ledges through the first half mile, a concern only when iced over. Beyond that it moves quickly through intervals of uniform lodgepole stands, narrow-walled passages and generous streamside shoulders. Though no campsites are officially maintained, many are well-established and easy to find.

No sign marks the trail’s conclusion, however it suddenly widens at the 801-252 4WD Jeep fork. A good map will lead you up Road 801 to another series of dirt road connections and unmarked trail spurs, one of which scales the summit of Miller Rock (8,646’).

GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84

• N40 07.471 W105 26.517 - Ceran St. Vrain Trailhead

• N40 07.771 W105 26.581 - .5 miles : Travel along elevated, narrow ledge

• N40 08.156 W105 26.447 - 1.0 mile mark

• N40 08.459 W105 26.387 - 1.5 mile mark

• N40 08.690 W105 26.376 - 1.92 miles : End of Trail @ Road 801 and 252 split

Worth Noting

• This versatile, 3-4 season trail accommodates hikers, runners, cyclists, equestrians, backcountry campers, fishermen and winter recreationalists. Anticipate heavy use by all, and follow proper yield protocols. Arrive early to secure parking and a measure of solitude.



• There is excellent fishing all along the creek. Due to heavy use, catch and release is voluntary but strongly encouraged by the state.



• Cannon Mountain (8,615') is visible from the end of the trail.

Camping and Backpacking Information

• Dispersed camping is permitted along the Ceran St. Vrain Trail. There are no designated sites, however many are well established from regular use along the creek. Group sizes are limited to 12 individuals.



• Fires are permitted unless otherwise indicated. Call in advance for status.



• Camp at least 200' from the trailhead, trail and creek. Practice Leave No Trace ethics.

Fishing Information

• Saint Vrain Creek (N) - Boulder County
  From Horse Creek downstream to inlet of Button Rock Reservoir:
  a. Artificial flies and lures only.
  b. Bag and possession limit for trout is 2.
  c. Brook Trout may not exceed 8 inches.



• COLORADO DIVISION OF WILDLIFE
  6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216
  (303) 297-1192
  www.wildlife.state.co.us

Directions to Trailhead

The Ceran St. Vrain Trailhead is located 5 miles past Jamestown, Colorado.

From Boulder.
Travel 5.5 miles north on Highway 36 to Lefthand Canyon. Turn left on Lefthand Canyon and drive 8.4 miles to Jamestown. Continue straight through Jamestown. The road - now also known as Overland Road - will turn into a dirt road 4.5 miles beyond Jamestown (ignore the fork on your left where this transition occurs). Continue .4 miles on this dirt road to the Ceran St. Vrain Trailhead sign on your right. Turn right. The Trailhead is located .15 miles from this turnoff.

Contact Information

USDA Forest Service: Roosevelt National Forest
2140 Yarmouth Ave.
Boulder, CO 80301
303.541.2500

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
2150 Centre Ave., Building E
Fort Collins, CO 80526
970.295.6600