About
Length5.1 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain900 ft up
Typical time3 hr 30 min
TrailheadSnake Creek Road
SurfaceForest and meadow path
Best seasonJuly to September for the high trails; the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is closed by snow roughly November to June.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityThis hike is not accessible due to rocky terrain.
What you'll see 🏞️ Lake🌼 Wildflowers

Trail Overview Distance: 5.1 miles / 8.2 kilometers Starting elevation: 8,200 feet / 2,500 meters Elevation Gain: 1,520 feet / 463 meters Difficulty: Moderate Time: 3 hours - 5 hours Begin at : Snake Creek Trailhead A 5.1 mile round trip hike to Dead lake offers trails through aspen groves and views on the snake valley on the way to a lake that comes and goes with the seasons. After heavy snow seasons, the lake is often filled late into the season, but can be totally dry after drier winters. Spring time ushers in a bevy of wildflowers of many colors, some years blooming well into the summer. Find yourself surrounded by pine, fir, and aspen trees as you hike through the forest and gain elevation. This hike starts at the Snake Creek Trailhead on Snake Creek Road. Stop to park at the trailhead at the road's end. Parking outside of designated spaces or along the road is prohibited. No pets permitted on park trails. Trained service animals allowed. Learn more about service animal regulations at this link. Water Potable water is not available along Snake Creek Road. Pack sufficient water with you, about one gallon per person per day. Restrooms The nearest restrooms are pit toilets with no running water at the Snake Creek Trailhead.

Tips
Whether there is a lake at all depends on the season and the snowpack. Excellent wildflowers in early summer and aspen colour in autumn.
Location

Snake Creek Road

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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