Encampment River Trail

Embark on the Encampment River Trail for a difficult jogging adventure spanning 19.5 miles (31.4 km). You will conquer an elevation gain of 1872 feet (571 metres) over an estimated 4 hours, making this a challenging yet rewarding route. The trail guides you through a narrow river canyon, past forested slopes, and into open grasslands, revealing picturesque cliffs and unique mushroom-topped rock formations along the pristine Encampment River.

For your visit, convenient access and amenities are available at the nearby Encampment River Campground, where you can use picnic tables and fire pits before or after your jog. Given the trail's difficult rating and 4-hour duration, ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear and fitness. Be aware that you might encounter occasional fallen trees across the path, so stay alert throughout your journey.

This route offers a deep immersion into the natural environment of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, showcasing diverse riparian areas and grassland settings. The final sections provide expansive vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and you might even spot local wildlife like moose or deer. The trail's unique blend of easier initial miles and increasingly demanding terrain makes it a notable experience for those seeking a varied and strenuous jog.