Camp Lake Trail
Description:
The
Camp Lake Trail connects the West Branch Trail to the Camp Lake area. It begins
on the West Branch Trail at an elevation of 9,488 feet, climbs to an elevation
of 10,671 feet, and ends at the Sandbar Trail at 10,560 feet. The trail begins
a moderate to steep climb over a very rough and rocky path. It travels through
some aspen groves and then into a dense spruce forest. The trail makes a steady
climb through spruce and lodgepole pine for about 1.1 miles. Soon it levels
out and becomes a pleasant walk offering some great views.
On
top the trail follows an old ditch that was constructed many years ago. It
travels along the top of the ditch dike that drops off on both sides. Here
the trail is level and easy walking. The trail follows the ditch for a little
over a mile before making a gentle climb toward Camp Lake. Here the trail
winds through dense spruce forest and open meadows. As you approach Camp Lake,
the trail travels through some thick, low-growing willows. Keep a sharp eye
out for the path as it is overgrown in places. It comes out of the willows
and travels along the south shore of Camp Lake to its intersection with the
trail to Upper Camp Lake.
The
trail to Upper Camp Lake is about a mile long and makes a gradual climb through
spruce forest, crossing a few streams. At one point there is a steep hill
but it is short. Upper Camp Lake is a beautiful alpine lake lined on the east
with dense short spruce trees.
The
last leg of the trail travels along the western shore of Camp Lake and then
heads off through the spruce forest. Watch for moose around the lake on this
side. The trail is wide and fairly level. It intersects the Sandbar Trail
after about a mile.
Features:
| Length: |
6 miles (9.7 kilometers) |
| Elevation Range: |
9,488' - 10,672' |
| Elevation change: |
1,729 feet |
| Season: |
July 1 - Sept 30 |
| Difficulty: |
Moderate |
| Use: |
High |
| USGS maps: |
Rawah Lakes |
| Trailheads: |
West Branch |
| Restrictions: |
Pets must be on a leash |
| Suitable for mountain bikes: |
No (not permitted in wilderness) |
| Suitable for horses: |
Yes |
Vicinity Map
Altitude Profile
Other Nearby Resources:
Directions:
The
Camp Lake Trail is located in the Rawah Wilderness and can be reached via the
West Branch Trailhead. Take Highway 287 north from Fort Collins to Laporte.
Continue on Highway 287 to Highway 14. Travel west on 14 for 50 miles to the
Laramie River Road. Turn right and travel 6.5 miles to the West Branch Trailhead.
The trailhead is on the left side of the road. Hike 2.5 miles on the West Branch
Trail to the Camp Lake Trail.
Copyright © 1999-2003 Resource Analysis
Systems
All rights reserved
