Horse Heaven Trail #214

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Spring · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The road to get to this trail is narrow and exposed in a number of sections so be sure to take your time when driving to the trailhead. This trail begins at Black Lake and climbs abruptly to the saddle looking down into Emerald Lake. You'll pass a junction to the Six Lakes Basin so make sure to stay right at the junction. There is a small lake before the pass that can dry out by the end of the season, though early in the season, there is usually a great wildflower display.

Once over the saddle, you'll descend down towards Emerald Lake. The trail is very loose coming off the saddle and there is some exposure that you need to careful of. As you dip into the trees, the trail is easy going again, and you'll soon be at Emerald Lake. Emerald Lake has some great meadows and campsites plus lots of great solitude.

The trail beyond Emerald Lake has not been maintained for a number of years and conditions are bound to change from year to year. Beyond Emerald Lake, you'll work your way through a forest for a while as you climb back into the alpine. You'll definitely be going over downed trees in this section until you enter the alpine. Once in the alpine, you'll need to watch for cairns since the trail in the meadow sections can be very faint. Be sure to check your maps frequently to not get misplaced. You can also use the Hiking Project mobile app to stay oriented, but a map is a failsafe option.

Wildflowers and animals are abundant.