Herman Gulch Trail #98

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Starting on an old sawmill road, this trail emerges out of the forested trees within a mile of traveling. From here onwards, the subalpine wildflowers add beauty to otherwise rocky terrain.

Towards the top of the trail, rock cairns (rock piles) lead the way to Herman Lake. This trail is a section of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.

Herman Lake provides the perfect setting for exploration. Enclosed by Pettingell Peak, the view across the lake is unobstructed and stunning. If you're feeling up to it, a quick scramble can allow for even better views across the valley. And if you're feeling particularly ambitious, Herman Lake can also offer an access point to the dual summits of the Citadel in an ascent that involves some more technical scrambling.

Enjoy the wildflowers in Spring! You have a chance of seeing bighorn sheep and mountain goats, if you're lucky.