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3-Day: Savage Lakes from Timberline TH

Far away from any paved roads, this moderate hike provides beautiful scenery and desolate lake hang outs. This less than 4-mile out-and-back trail gains 1,200 ft in elevation, and is wide open at the top for further exploration.

Organized groups are required to obtain approval from the Forest Service, Leadville District Office (719-486-0749)

This short, but steep trail within Holy Cross Wilderness is in good condition. It should be noted, however, that numerous snow drifts can be expected on the trail throughout the month of June. Fishing is good for Brook and Lake Trout. Even though the trail starts out as being rather steep, the trail soon becomes more moderate.  To visit the upper lakes, stay on the left-hand side of the lake for a simple climb to the upper lakes.

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 TH near Basalt (approx. 4 hrs). Hike trail #1918 to Lower and Upper Savage Lakes, 2.0 miles, 1,200 ft to the Lower Lake. Option to camp here to continue to Upper Savage Lake with another 200ft elevation gain. There is good camping near both lakes and the terrain above to the East allows a gradual access to the ridge with Savage Peak to the left.

Day 2: Optional fishing, hike to Carter Lake (Trail #1944), hike up to Savage Peak, hang out at camp

Day 3: Break camp and descend 2.0 miles back to the TH

Overall Route

Driving Directions: From Carbondale travel east on Hwy 82 to Basalt. Turn left at the light and head east on the Fryingpan River Road for 27 miles. Approximately 3 miles past Meredith, turn left onto road #501. About one mile past Elk Wallow Campground take the left fork for approximately 3.25 miles to the trailhead (.2 of a mile before the dead end).

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 4.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
  • 11,162 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Holy Cross Wilderness Area, Sopris 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 126
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