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3-Day: Crystal Lakes from Mayflower Lakes TH

Amazing scenery with a rewarding end. Camp near Lower Crystal Lake then optional day hikes to both lakes for more mileage and incredible scenery. Optional hike up Crystal Peak, fishing, and chilling at camp. This is a 3-day Out and Back in White River NF with total 3 miles and 1200ft elevation gain.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members:

Day 1: Drive to Mayflower Lakes TH near Breckenridge (approx. 2 hrs). Take Wheeler National Recreational Trail #39 for about 3/4mile (400ft elevation) to the junction with jeep road to the Lower Crystal Lake (also goes to the Upper Crystal Lake TH). Hike up this fairly steep 4x4 road and camp after about 1.25 miles in the last of the trees and away from the trail. Daily total 1.25miles and 620ft elevation. Camp for 2 nights. Option to hike up about half a mile to Lower Crystal Lake without packs.

Route Day 1

Day 2: Optional hike to  Upper Crystal Lake and then hike around the lake or, just hike up to Lower Crystal Lake. . Take Crystal Lakes Trail #44 to Upper Crystal Lake, approx. 2 miles one way, 960 ft elevation.

Route Day 2

Day 3: Return to Mayflower TH by retracing your steps down hill. Approx. 1.25 miles and 620 ft descent.

Route Day 3

Driving Directions:  From I-70 take Exit 203, Frisco/Breckenridge, and travel south on HWY 9 through Frisco to the intersection of HWY 9 and Boreas Pass Road on the south side of Breckenridge. Proceed south on HWY 9 for approximately 2.1 miles and turn right onto Spruce Creek Road (Cty Rd 800). Proceed uphill on a good quality dirt road for approximately 0.1 mile and then bear left on main road through the intersection. After approximately 1.1 miles you will arrive at the Spruce Creek Trailhead parking area. Continue past the parking area, keep left at fork, for 1.25 miles to Mayflower Lakes Trailhead. Road is rough past Spruce Creek TH (high clearance vehicle recommended). 

Alternate: Two day version with optional hike to Upper Crystal Lake on first or second day.

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 3.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
  • 12,900 ft
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  • Trails Illustrated 109
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  • 2-Day: Crystal Lakes from Mayflower Lakes TH
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