The Cache La Poudre received its name from a cache of gun powder and lead hidden in the bank of the river by the William H. Ashley party in 1825. It was a very swift river at the time and caused the loss of many wagons and freight when emigrants sought to ford it. Since the beginning of the western settlement of Northern Colorado, this river has become the lifeblood of Northern Colorado and one of our most important natural resources. The river provides a source of food, shade, water, nourishment for crops, gravel and recreation. The river has long served both the needs of man and animal. The Front Range of Colorado averages only 15 inches of rainfall per year. The typical bluegrass lawns requires about 30 to 40 inches per year of moisture to stay alive, twice the amount of the average rainfall. Thus, the Poudre River flowing from its headwaters in Rocky Mountain National Park is of vital import to the thousands of citizens that live along its banks. From agriculture to drinking water, the Poudre River's resource is in great demand. Today, the Poudre River is substantially different than it was a short 100 years ago. The once rushing river is frequently only a trickle due to the demands for water. However, it still holds a majesty of its own. The Poudre Trail allows people to experience the beauty of the river, while also preserving the river's edge and the habitat of wildlife species that live near the river.