High Country Tour to Bismark Lake

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This route uses the Arizona Trail to climb up into the San Francisco Peaks and then continues through high meadows and aspen stands to a small lake. The scenery is first rate on this fantastic day hike or trail run.

This area is popular, especially on weekends, and especially during leaf season (the area around Aspen Corner draws crowds). Be ready to share the trail.

This walk starts at Aspen Corner on Snowbowl Road. Follow the trail into the aspen glade, which shortly drops steeply into mixed conifer forest. As the trail descends, look for a signed intersection with the Arizona Trail (Aspen Corner to FR 418), where you'll turn right (north). A quick detour here straight ahead leads to a picturesque water tank that usually holds water and has a great view of the San Francisco Peaks.

Once on the Arizona Trail, the path winds briefly through aspen trees before it breaks out to cross Hart Prairie. Outstanding views in all directions continue for miles as you alternate between meadows and aspen stands. When fall colors are blazing, the scenery is mind-blowing.

After a few miles, there is a signed turnoff for Bismark Lake, which is the turnaround for this route. The lake itself is a bit underwhelming, but there is often wildlife around and the views of Humphreys Peak are great.