This is indeed one of my most favorite hikes! It’s at altitude, so it’s cooler in the summer, and there are not 1 but 2 lakes to treat you!
This year another friend and I decided to go early to “beat the crowds”. We got the very last official parking spot at the top. We left carpool at 6:30, we saw a moose on the way and figured that was a good sign for a grand day!
The skies were blue bird, the trail up to the official trail head was just bumpy and not nearly as washed out as years past.
As others have mentioned on “all trails” this year the mosquitos are in full force this year. Spray your hat and ankles.
The wild flowers were beautiful, but not many columbines this year.
Stats:
- 4.42 miles
- 1050 ft elevation gain
- 2 hours and 47 minutes – including a snack break at murray lake
Verdict:
Love this hike!
It has become significantly more popular. We probably passed 50 people on our way down. Go early and bring a car with clearance if you want to park at the top.
Bathroom options – geroge town visitor center – the restroom is open even if the center is not