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2-Day: Upper Cataract Lake from Eaglesmere TH


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2-Day: Upper Cataract Lake from Eaglesmere TH

Hike to a beautiful lake in a scenic basin below high peaks, including the Eagles Nest Peak, in Eagles Nest Wilderness. Lollipop route is 12 miles and 2,830 vertical feet.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 2-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members:

Day 1 - Start at Eaglesmere Trailhead, on the Eaglesmere Trail (#61) and hike up to the Gore Range Trail (#60). Turn left (south) and head west past Tipperary Lake and on to Cataract Trail (#63).  Head up to Upper Cataract Lake and set up a campsite near the lake. (7 miles/2,700’)

Day 2 - Head back down Cataract Trail to the Gore Range Trail. Turn right and travel past Surprise Lake to Surprise Trail (#62), turn left and head down to the Surprise TH and walk to the Eaglesmere trailhead. (5 miles/0’).

Overall Route

Driving Directions: From I-70 take Exit 205, Silverthorne / Dillon, and travel north on HWY 9.Travel 16 miles north on HWY 9. Just after mile marker 118 turn left onto Heeney Rd (County Rd 30). Follow Heeney Road for 5.3 miles and turn left onto Cataract Creek Road (FDR 1725). Continue for 2 miles to a junction, turn right onto FDR 1726 and follow the road to the Eaglesmere Trailhead and parking area.

General Requirements: Campfires are not permitted at Upper Cataract Lake (Stoves only). Bear canister or bear bag required.

  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Length: 12.2 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,830 ft
  • 10,893 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Eagles Nest Wilderness Area, Dillon Ranger District (WRNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
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  • Trails Illustrated 108
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