2-Day: Lake Katherine from Katherine TH

Enjoy an easy 4-mile trip over 2 days to Lake Katherine sits at 9,900 feet, which is the high point of this route. 

There are creek crossings; water level varies by time of year-- be prepared with water shoes and trekking poles. 

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 from the Katherine TH and take the Lone Pine Trail 1129 1 ¼ miles to junction and stay left to take the Lake Katherine trail 11578 another ¾ mile to the lake at 9,900 feet. (2.0 miles/+1,000 feet). There are 10+ good tent sites within view of the lake. 

Day 2 - Return to cars at Katherine TH. (2.0 miles/+100/-1,000 feet).

Alternate: Additional free day in the middle to linger at this lake, fish or explore.

Map: https://trails.colorado.gov/routes/37940?t=kBWTBnLRTe1aVi7EKceP

Driving Directions:

Note: The last 7 miles are on unpaved roads; reports say AWD was sufficient. Trailhead parking is not large; consolidate cars as much as possible. 

From the Denver area, drive to Walden. Take CR 12W which is just south of Walden where Hwy 125 turns north to east before town. Follow signs for Lone Pine staying on CR12W (careful lots of intersections with turns - have a map). Finally turn left onto CR 16 and follow that to USFS 640 Katherine TH. One way driving distance from Denver is 150 mile and 3:15 hours. 

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking
• Seasons: July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 4.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,100 ft
• High Point: 9,900 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, Parks Ranger District (RNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 8
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12