The trail crosses several more streams and follows forest roads connecting trail segments, breaking west and leveling out near Belknap Hot Springs Resort. From Trailbridge Reservoir, the trail continues south through an old growth conifer forest and breaks out onto Forest Road 610, joining the road and heading south past a gate before breaking off the road east and south back along the now continuing river. After about 2 miles, the trail reaches a viewpoint of Tamolich Blue Pool, where the river bubbles up from the ground in a crystal clear, blue colored pool.įrom here, the trail heads down stream as the river begins to grow from the spring at blue pool eventually ending again at Trailbridge Reservoir.
The trail then follows a dry creekbed in old growth forest with several bridges to cross as the trail and creekbed meander in the valley bottom. The trail winds around Carmen Reservoir where the river disappears underground for most of the year. The trail then crosses the river to its western side on a footbridge, winding down past scenic viewpoints overlooking Sahalie and Koosah Falls. The trail continues winding through the forest and old lava flows in view of Clear Lake and passes the Great Spring, which is a primary source of the McKenzie River.Īfter passing the southern end of Clear Lake, the trail winds through forest and crosses Highway 126, continuing along the McKenzie River. The trail maintains a gradual downhill track through old growth conifer trees as it winds along the edge of the McKenzie River and crosses the river on a footbridge just before Clear Lake. Washington, and crosses a bridge over the McKenzie River. The starting point for the Lake Nighthorse Trail can be found at the Lake Nighthorse boat dock, just south of County Road 210.Beginning at the Upper McKenzie River Trailhead, McKenzie River National Recreation Trail #3507 starts in an old lava flow, originating from Mt. Getting to the Lake Nighthorse Trail Trailhead Bring your swimsuit if you want to spend some time in or around the water!.There is a day pass fee of $4 to access the area surrounding the lake.Can you swim in Lake Nighthorse?Ī Variety of water sports, including swimming, fishing, and boating are permitted at Lake Nighthorse. There is an entrance fee of $4 for a day pass or $80 for a season-long vehicle pass. Frequently Asked Questions How much does it cost to visit Lake Nighthorse? The lake has been open for recreational purposes since 2018 and has since been stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. Construction began in 2003 and the eventual lake that formed was named after the former US Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. Located southwest of Durango, Colorado, Lake Nighthorse is a manmade reservoir created by the Ridges Basin Dam.
Forms here, simply turn back along the trail to take in the views once again on the return leg into the parking area where you began the Lake Nighthorse Trail. At the far end of the lake to the southwest, you will be able to spot the rugged peak of Basin Mountain standing proudly above the lake.Īfter 1.8 km of hiking along the road, you will reach the endpoint of the trail near the Ridges Basin Dam. With the tree covered hillside on your left and the open water on your right, you will continue along the route as it winds back and forth along the shoreline. Throughout this short route you will enjoy beautifully scenic views that sweep across the calm surface of the water. Setting out from the parking area, you will make your way to the southeast along the road as it skirts the edge of Lake Nighthorse. This is a great route for the entire family to get outside and spend some time by the lake. Additionally, if you are looking to spend some time by the water after your hike don’t forget to bring your swimsuit!Īlthough it isn’t the longest hiking route around, the Lake Nighthorse Trail is a relaxing adventure that will see you meander along the shoreline of the lake and take in some wonderfully scenic views of the water. There is a $4 fee to access the area, so make sure to plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking. Route Description for Lake Nighthorse Trailįeaturing little in the way of difficult terrain, the Lake Nighthorse Trail is a short adventure that offers some beautiful views across the water.
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