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 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.
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.
Most recent Triplog Review
Boulder Lake Trail - Trinity Alps Wilderness
Boulder Lake Backpacker
The road to the trailhead was blocked by snow banks, so we had to start our hike about 4 miles from the trailhead. The road to the trailhead was quite scenic at least, but not very shaded. After we started on the actual trail, it soon became covered in snow until it was lost completely and we had to guide ourselves over a ridge and down to Boulder Lake. We met only one other group of 3 hikers who accidentally hiked to Little Boulder Lake before crossing over the ridge leading to Boulder Lake. The lake was covered in snow, but had plenty of water on the edges. We got a fantastic campsite right by the lake and the snow banks blocking the road turned this into a much private wilderness experience than expected. The night was cold enough to freeze the top of the lake, but it melted quickly after the sun rose again. Overall, I will have to wait a bit longer before trekking into the Trinity Alps wilderness this year.
2017-05-27 lojones5
