The Walden Loop (courtesy of Greeley HD&Yamaha) - By rtcoker

YES! YES! YES! Highway 14 west out of Fort Collins, up the Cache LaPoudre River is incredible. Take it all the way into Walden, CO up at about 8,500 feet in elevation. going up the canyon is incredible, with the river on your right for about 80 miles. once at the pass and the high plateau you are in wildlife nirvana. Watch for Moose!, Elk!, deer, turkey, and everything!. Weather can change in a heartbeat up there so pack some extra gear, (rain suit, and maybe heated clothing) I have left Fort Collins at 90 degrees and 3 hours later rolled into Walden in snow!. Hit Rabbit Ears pass while you are up that way. But the return route shown here is great, coming back around through the Rocky Mountain National Park. ($25.00 fee unless you have a pass). Estes Park can be crowded. There is a bypass around to the south which takes you down to Nederland (hwy 7) and some more awesome roads. But La Poudre canyon is a DON'T miss!