Cameron Pass (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cameron Pass |
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One of the signs at the top of the pass.
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| Elevation | 10,276 ft (3,132 m) |
| Traversed by |  SH 14 |
| Location | Jackson / Larimer counties, Colorado, United States |
| Range | Rocky Mountains |
| Coordinates | 40°31′15″N 105°53′33″W / 40.52083°N 105.89250°W |
| Topo map | USGS Clark Peak |
Cameron Pass is a mountain pass in north-central Colorado. It sits high in the Rocky Mountains of the western United States. This pass is like a natural doorway between the southern part of the Medicine Bow Mountains and the northern part of the Never Summer Mountains.
Cameron Pass is about 10,276 feet (3,132 meters) above sea level. It is located right on the border between Jackson County and Larimer County. The pass is also only about 3 miles (5 km) north of Rocky Mountain National Park. It offers the easiest way to travel between Fort Collins and Walden. You can use State Highway 14 to cross it.
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Cameron Pass: A Mountain Gateway
Cameron Pass is an important route through the mountains. It connects different parts of Colorado. The pass is known for its beautiful scenery. It also provides access to many outdoor activities.
Where is Cameron Pass?
This mountain pass is found in the northern part of Colorado. It acts as a natural gap between two mountain ranges. To the north are the Medicine Bow Mountains. To the south are the Never Summer Mountains. The pass is also very close to the famous Rocky Mountain National Park. This makes it a popular spot for visitors.
The Story Behind the Name
Cameron Pass was named in 1870. It honors Robert Alexander Cameron. He was a former Union Army general. He also founded the Fort Collins Agricultural Colony. People once thought about building railroads over the pass. The Union Pacific Railroad even surveyed it. However, no railroad was ever built there.
Fun Things to Do
Cameron Pass is a great place for outdoor adventures. It is located on the edge of the Roosevelt National Forest. It also borders the Colorado State Forest State Park. There are parking areas on both sides and at the top. These spots allow easy access to many trails.
In the summer, these trails are perfect for hiking. In the winter, they become popular for cross-country skiing. The pass gets a lot of snow in winter. It can also have avalanches. But it usually stays open all year round. The road is gentle when approaching from the west. It is steeper if you come from the east.
Water Flowing from the Pass
Cameron Pass is a divide for water. On its north side, water flows into Joe Wright Creek. This creek is a branch of the Cache la Poudre River. This river eventually joins the South Platte River. On the south side, water flows into the Michigan River. This river is a branch of the North Platte River. The North Platte River flows through an area called North Park.
