Boulder Lake Trail - Trinity Alps Wilderness, CA

Overview
Boulder Lake trail is an entry level hike into the Trinity Alps Wilderness, which takes hikers to a small secluded lake surrounded by ridges. Because of its relatively easy accessibility, this is usually a popular destination among hikers especially in the summer months after snow has melted.

Warning
If this hike is attempted too early in the year, the road to the trailhead may be blocked by snow banks (this happened to me Memorial Day weekend 2017). You can drive as close as possible (I was 4 miles from the trailhead), and hike from there on a scenic road leading to the trailhead. The trail itself could then be covered in snow, and you will have to navigate by map for the last mile as you hike over a ridge then down to the lake.

Hike
The hike begins on a small abandoned jeep trail, then follows a ridge line before climbing over the ridge and descended to the lake. The trail is a gentle hill the entire way until reaching the descent to Boulder Lake. Just before ascending over the ridge, it is possible to stop at Little Boulder Lake as a short detour before completing the route to Boulder Lake. Once at Boulder Lake, there are several options if you'd like to trek further. There are trails that lead deeper into the Trinity Alps, or you can take a day hike to visit the Lost and Found Lakes or climb Tapie Peak.

Water Sources
Water available in Boulder Lake. No water or facilities at the trailhead.

Camping
There are 4+ very good campsites around Boulder Lake. If these are crowded, you may also be interested in setting up camp at Little Boulder Lake.

Check out the Official Route and Triplog.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2017-05-30 lojones5