Route Editor
Route Scout
..Surrounded by 13k' &14k' Peaks.. by Grasshopper Overview The Lizard Head Trail #505 traverses north around and then up onto the rugged Black Face Ridge within the Lizard Head Wilderness. This popular day hiking and backpacking trail providing a border route between the Uncompahgre National Forest and the San Juan National Forest. During prime season numerous varieties of wildflowers abound for the first mile along with large aspen groves. Spectacular views of the Wilson Mountain Range welcome the hiker as the trail winds along the ridge of Black Face. From this higher vantage point one can also see great distances into the San Juan Mountain Range to the north and south. Warning The Black Face ridge top traverse (above 11.7k') is extremely exposed in poor weather conditions. Hike Initially this lush green forest Lizard Head Trail #505 contours in from Lizard Head pass southwest under rugged Black Face Ridge. After crossing talus slopes the trail begins to climb and overlooks the Lake Fork Valley and Trout Lake. The trail switchbacks steeply up through large conifers onto Black Face Ridge and soon reaches timberline at around 11,700 feet. From this point the trail follows the spine of the scenic ridge up to and over the summit of Black Face at 12,147 feet where this hike description ends. Take time to take-in all the spectacular short and long distance views of the numerous high peaks and lush meadows that now surround you including Wilson Meadow to your north. Also view posted 7/21/07 GPS track with identifying key waypoints noted of the surrounding 12k' to 14k' peaks including the most unusual- "Lizard Head Peak" at 13,113 feet partially in view to the NW from the Black Face Ridge highpoint and located further in on this same trail. Water Sources Seasonal creek and drainage water flows within the first 1.5 miles in on Trail#505. Perennial Wilson Creek is available if camping in Wilson Meadow (2 miles in to Wilson Meadow on Sheep TR#212). Camping Two miles in on TR#505 to intersection with Sheep Trail #212 then two additional miles to backpack camping locations in Wilson Meadow. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
