Frommer's Review
This trail is an easy walk for the first .3 miles to scenic Adams Falls, where early-morning hikers are frequently blessed with a rainbow sparkling through the rising mist. The trail then wanders through meadows -- sometimes marshy and mosquito-ridden -- as it follows the East Inlet, one of the two tributaries of Grand Lake. Spur trails lead to the banks of the river, where you may find evidence of beaver if you look closely -- both dams and lodges can be seen in East Meadow. As you hike, glance occasionally at the domineering sight of Mount Craig, or "Mount Baldy" as it is commonly called in Grand Lake because of its treeless rounded peak.
After East Meadow, the trail begins to climb sharply toward Lone Pine Lake, about 5.5 miles from the trail head. From the switchbacks along here you can occasionally see Mount Craig off to the south. Lone Pine Lake was named for the single lodgepole pine that once took root on the rock island in the middle of the lake. It has since been replaced by several pines and an Engelmann spruce. The trail continues along the southern shoreline of the lake before the final climb to Lake Verna. Passing among trees and rocks, crossing long bridges over brooks streaming down Andrews Peak to the north, and wandering again through a subalpine forest, the trail finally emerges onto a rocky ridge overlooking Lake Verna. This vista allows you to appreciate the fjordlike design of this lovely lake. The trail continues on past the lake, but it is not maintained. The starting elevation is 8,395 feet, and the total elevation gain to Lake Verna is 1,809 feet.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
