Glen Echo Resort
The Oasis in the Canyon
​The river flowing through the canyon is known as the Cache la Poudre (or Poudre River). The name likely originated from Cache à la Poudre or "cache of powder," or Cacher la poudre, which translates to “hide the powder.” The exact date when the canyon received its name is uncertain, but it was referenced as early as 1835.
There are several narratives regarding the origin of the river’s name. Historically, trappers would conceal valuables by excavating small holes in the ground to create storage chambers. These holes were then filled in and camouflaged by replacing the sod, disposing of excess soil, trampling it down, or even lighting a fire over it to mask the location.
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Several accounts suggest that a group of French trappers transporting supplies to a rendezvous on the Green River in Wyoming became stranded in a snowstorm, compelling them to bury (cache) their supplies until they could return to retrieve them.
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Another story posits that William H. Ashley made a cache while trading in the area, intending to retrieve the items later in their journey.​
​Popular activities in the canyon include fly fishing, whitewater rafting, tubing, hiking, and kayaking.
The history of the Poudre Canyon (Pronounced by the locals as “Poo-der” Canyon)
Our history
The Glen Echo Resort is a year-round destination situated directly on the Cache La Poudre River, at the core of the Roosevelt National Forest. Over the decades, Glen Echo has transformed from a modest store and camp into a comprehensive year-round resort offering food, supplies, camping, cabins, glamping, and RV spots for travelers.
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Located at an elevation of 7,200 feet above sea level, the resort’s name is reputed to come from a spot just west of the site where one can hear voices echo from across the canyon. It is akin to the town of Rustic. In 1903, the Racine Mining, Milling, and Power Company established their headquarters on the property.
In 1920, Mr. John F. Cooke acquired the land from Norman Fry and constructed the first camp. Originally located on the other side of the road, a small building was moved onto the site in 1923, The opening of the store and tent camp began in 1925 and was known as Cook‘s camp. The tents eventually had permanent roofs and screened-in sides.
The restaurant and general store then burned to the ground in 2002 after mice escaping the winter cold chewed electrical wiring and caused a short and subsequent fire. Thankfully no one was hurt by the fire.
The current structure was then built and was thankfully spared in both the High park in 2012 and the Cameron peak fire in 2020.
