The Ten Essentials
Overview
| Wilderness One Way Length Beginning Elevation Peak Elevation Gain/Loss/Net Gain Ratings USFS Regulations Trails Illustrated Quadrangle |
Rawah 6.2 miles (from Camp Lake trailhead [via the “cutoff trail”] to Rawah Trail jct.) 8,559 10,597 3,356/1,364/+1,992 Hikers – Strenuous; Stock Riders – Challenging National Forest > Wilderness #112 Poudre River, Cameron Pass Clark Peak, Boston Peak, Rawah, Chambers |
Location
See the driving directions for West Branch Trail (source trail). Facilities, horse trailer parking and water are available at trailhead.
| GPS Coordinates Jct. West Branch Trail Jct. NW end of “ditch loop” trail Jct. SE end of “ditch loop” trail Jct. Rawah Trail |
N40°39.845’ W105°53.482’ N40°41.851’ W105°54.830’ N40°41.579’ W105°54.111’ N40°42.034’ W105°56.453’ |
Description
The Camp Lake trail typically requires an overnight stay. After entering the Rawah Wilderness, travel up the West Branch Trail, which follows the West Branch of the Laramie River for several miles. You will encounter the Camp Lake Trail about 2.7 miles from the West Branch trailhead. The first mile of the Camp Lake Trail is quite steep, rising some 1,000 feet as it heads uphill to the north. This part of the trail has sustained some severe erosion damage. When the trail levels somewhat and opens up, you will have some great views of Cameron Peak, Clark Peak, and the West Branch valley below. As you climb a little further, you will notice the remains of some old cabins. Workers on the Link Ditch lived here during its construction in the 1890s and early 1900s. The trail is relatively flat as it winds along the ditch for 2 miles. Shortly after crossing North Fall Creek, the trail will make a large bend to the right. From here, you can head left on the “cutoff” trail, which will rejoin the old Camp Lake “ditch loop” trail about 1 mile from Camp Lake, or continue following the “ditch loop” trail. The old “ditch loop” trail has become faint in places. It will add 1 mile to your hike. When you reach Camp Lake, look for a campsite to the north or southwest of the lake. Camp Lake is a very popular destination for both backpackers and horsepackers, and has sustained considerable resource damage in the past. Despite this it seems to be recovering nicely. Please make sure you camp at least 200 ft from the lake, stream, and trail. The east side of Upper Camp Lake provides some good camping and grazing areas for horsepackers. Upper Camp Lake is a beautiful area, with Sheep Mountain dominating the view to the west.
