About This Route
Upper Beaver Meadows loop in RMNP spans 3.5 miles of rolling meadows at 8,200 feet, starting from Beaver Meadows Entrance Station trailhead. This beginner-to-intermediate route winds through aspen groves and open fields with Longs Peak vistas, ideal for wildlife spotting like deer and coyotes. Low avalanche potential suits novices; snowpack varies from 2-4 feet mid-winter. Follow NPS snowshoe trails to minimize impact, per Leave No Trace ethics.
Safety Considerations
Gentle terrain reduces avalanche risk, but verify CAIC reports for wind-loaded slabs. Extreme cold demands vigilance; wind gusts to 50mph cause frostbite in 30 minutes exposed skin. Postholing in soft snow fatigues quickly; snowshoes prevent this. Elk calving grounds nearby require caution May-June bleed into winter. Use AllTrails or NPS map for junctions. Hydrate despite cold; dehydration mimics hypothermia. REI experts stress group travel and buddy checks.
Essential Gear
DMS Kreed snowshoes for meadow flotation. Salomon Toundra boots. REI Traverse poles. Icebreaker merino base, Rab Kinetic shell. Petzl headlamp, MSR fuel canister for hot drinks, avalanche probe as precaution.
Emergency Tips
Lost: follow drainage to trailhead. Injury: stabilize and call 970-586-1206. Meadows visible from road; quick extraction possible.