Carefully groomed greens shape the face of top North American golfing destination, Brainerd, though this central Minnnesota city is also close to a handful of historic sites and sparkling lakes.
This trail and area are popular and receive heavy use. Three Island Lakes not suggested as a destination for camping. Because of overuse impacts, regulations do not permit camping near the lake. Camping off the trail nearer the Continental Divide offers the greatest solitude and short hikes can be taken to enjoy the lake.
The trail begins in aspen climbing gradually upward to spruce and fir with some lodgepole pine. At Lookout Rock there is a good view of the South Fork of the Elk River Valley the hiker continues on to the lake with its three islands. The trail travels past the lake, past Beaver Lake (not visible from the trail) up a rocky section, opening to high meadows and up to the Divide.
At Vista Verde Ranch, hiking is one of the many activities you can try during your all-inclusive Colorado ranch vacation. Our guides offer a customized outdoor experience whether you want to rock climb, mountain bike, fly fish or horseback ride.
At Vista Verde Ranch, hiking is one of the many activities you can try during your all-inclusive Colorado ranch vacation. Our guides offer a customized outdoor experience whether you want to rock climb, mountain bike, fly fish or horseback ride.
Details
Location:
Near Steamboat Springs
Setting:
Mountainous
Length:
12.2 mile roundtrip
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
6.5 to 7.5 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
8150
Elevation Change:
2800
Season:
Summer
Useful Map(s):
USGS Quads: Farwell Mt., Mt. Zirkel Mt. Ethel
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Go west of Steamboat on U.S. 40 about 2 miles to the Elk River Road (County Road #129) then turn right. Go north about 25 miles, just past the Glen Eden Ranch and turn east on the Seedhouse Road #400. Travel about 10 miles past the Seedhouse Campground to FDR #443 turn right. The trailhead is about 3 miles down this road.
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