Contact Info
325 Rainbow Blvd.
Salida, CO 81201
- Phone:
- 719-539-3591
Basics
- Length:
- 4 miles
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 2.5 - 3.5 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 9600 feet
- Elevation Range:
- 9600 feet to 11350 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 1750 feet
- Season:
- Spring to Fall
Description
The trail begins near some old mine tailings and travels southwest towards a small ridge and then drops down to Pass Creek. The trail follows the creek and passes several beaver ponds that offer good fishing for brook trout. The trail becomes steeper as you begin climbing toward Pass Creek Lake. The lake rests in a small basin. Anglers report the most success with flies at the lake.
This is a good overnight backpack trip with few visitors to the lake for overnight trips. There are several good campsites located well away from the lakeshore and delicate wetlands areas. All trash must be packed out and campers should build small warming fires or opt for using a small stove for cooking purposes. Motorcyclists must stay on the designated trail and avoid wet areas to lessen damage to the trail.
Details
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Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Poncha Springs, travel west on Highway 50 for 2 miles to County Road 210. CR 210 is located on the left side of the highway. Turn left onto CR 210. A Forest Service sign will indicate access to Little Cochetopa Creek and Pass Creek. Continue traveling for approximately 1 mile on CR 210 to the intersection with CR 212. Turn right onto CR 212 and continue for about 3 miles to the trailhead.
Four-wheel drive is needed for the last mile of CR 212.
