The Colorado Headwaters Plateau watershed, HUC 14010005, spans 2,256 square miles and includes Rocky Mountain National Park. The headwaters of the Colorado River, Blue River, and Fraser River all originate within the watershed. The area experiences a high amount of snowpack, with an average of 200 inches of snowfall per year. The snowpack provides a significant source of surface water and feeds numerous reservoirs, including Lake Granby and Shadow Mountain Reservoir. The watershed is also home to unique geologic formations, such as the Gore Range, volcanic rock formations, and hot springs. In recent years, the area has experienced drought conditions, resulting in decreased snowpack and reduced water availability. The watershed's climate is influenced by the Rocky Mountains and experiences cold, snowy winters and warm summers.