Lake Evelyn Out-and-Back

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers

A steep hike between meadows and dense montane forest to a lovely little alpine lake. This trail can be enjoyed as a simple out and back, or it can make the start to a longer backpacking trip in the Byers Peak Wilderness.

The road to the trailhead is a narrow 4x4 road, not suitable for passenger cars. A capable truck or SUV is recommended. Permits are not required for overnight use, but wilderness regulations apply.

The drive to get out to the Lake Evelyn trailhead is a bit demanding, but the hike is worth it. Start up an old logging road for a bit and cross over a creek. Continue up the wide trail for about a mile before the trail narrows and starts winding more steeply upward. As you get closer to the lake, the the forest will get denser again and then open up. There are great backcountry campsites around the lake if you are making this a backpacking loop.