Basics
- Location:
- Salida
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Length:
- 16 mile roundtrip
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 9 to 10 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 9000 feet
- Elevation Change:
- -2500 feet
- Season:
- Summer - Fall
Description
The lake is in a tight basin glacial cirque, with trees on the lake shore.
The trail is in good shape along the Rainbow Trail and for the first two miles of Hunts Lake Trail. The final part is steep and rocky and not recommended for horses.
The trail junction is not well defined from the Rainbow Trail.
Details
Location:
Setting:
Length:
Difficulty:
Time:
Trailhead Elevation:
Elevation Change:
Season:
Useful Map(s):
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Bear Creek …. Take highway 50, east from Salida for 3 miles turn south (or right) on to county road #101. This dirt road becomes somewhat rugged after the first 2 miles, but is passable in a 2-wheel drive vehicle. Stay on 101 until you reach the Rainbow Trail (the end of the road). There is parking enough for 3 large vehicles at the Rainbow Trail, be careful not to park your vehicle on the trail. From this point, head east on the Rainbow trail for 5 miles. ). This trail is moderate for hiking.
Just 25’ before you reach a switchback (Rainbow trail continues to the southwest) you will see a road leading to private property on the downhill side. Just opposite of this road is the Hunts Lake trail (there is a sign that directs Stout and Bear Ck. On the Rainbow Trail) junction.
