Lake Efra Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Waterfalls, views, and an alpine lake await on this enticing trail that serves up the goods in equal parts with the steeps. A charming forest hike leads to a stunning groups of waterfalls. From there, steep switchbacks ascend into the alpine to reach the banks of Lake Efra.

This route is best from April through September.

From the stone church in Frasco, head up the adjacent stairs that connect to a paved country road. Follow the road to the right until it reaches the tree line. A brief rise soon brings hikers above the north bank of the river that flows through the bottom of this deep and narrow valley. The travel is immensely pleasant here as filtered sunlight streams through a rich green forest.

The trail continues like this until suddenly emerging from the trees at the confluence of several waterfalls that beautifully cascade and pool at the end of the valley. The exceptional movements of the water make an inviting place to take a break before tackling the steep sections ahead.

After completing the necessary creek crossing/scramble, a host of switchbacks zig-zag up the significant steep sections ahead. The occasional waterfall glimpsed through the trees serves as a welcome distraction from the grueling climb.

A well-earned reprieve is reached at a small clearing that nestles several small stone huts. From here, there's just one final climb, and a few stream crossings, to reach the banks of the glacial blue pool of Lake Efra.

Once you've enjoyed the cold waters of the lake, return the way that you came, admiring the views all the way back to the trailhead.