The Poudre is one of Colorado's quintessential freestone rivers. It starts as a small stream high in Rocky Mountain National Park and becomes one of the larger rivers in Colorado. The ample fishing and multiple whitewater opportunities combine to make this river one of the best in the state.

The upper headwaters section is in Rocky Mountain National Park and can only be accessed by hiking or four-wheel drive. The lower section is easily accessed along Colorado Highway 14, which parallels much of the river.