Timber Lake Trail

Frommer's Review

The trail starts off fairly easy, crossing a meadow, open woodlands, and a bridge over Beaver Creek, but then begins climbing steeply. About 400 feet above the valley floor, it follows Timber Creek upstream. Then 3 miles from the trail head, Long Meadows Trail joins the path, and a small tributary flows into the creek, providing abundant moisture to support numerous wildflowers, such as the delicate pink Parry's primrose and the lovely white marsh marigold. Climbing more steeply along short switchbacks will bring you to a meadow of subalpine flowers. The striking roseroot, or king's crown, with its cluster of small red-brown flowers, and the red and yellow paintbrush border the path as it follows Timber Creek. Winding through a subalpine forest, and then among rocks, the final switchback ascent brings you to the marshlike outlet of Timber Lake. A few trees accent the north shore of the lake, but the stark beauty of the spot is defined by rock, tundra, and snow even in midsummer. It's surrounded by the rugged northwestern flank of Mount Ida, whose summit is hidden. The hike begins at about 9,000 feet and ascends another 2,060 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.

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