Caribou Lakes Trail

The Caribou Lake Trail is not for the faint of heart. This strenuous adventure through the high-country demands endurance, preparation, and a dedicated mindset. If you plan to complete this as a day hike, make sure you head out before dawn with the help of a headlamp to arrive back at the trailhead before nightfall. Additionally, be sure to pack plenty of water as there are limited sources to restock along the way. If you are tackling this route as an overnight expedition, make sure to pick up a permit from the ranger’s office before heading out.

Your journey along the Caribou Lakes Trail begins from the trailhead off Coffee Creek Road. Shortly after departing from the trailhead, you will be led up a set of tightly wound switchbacks before the Caribou Lakes Trail redirects you south. Wandering through mixed consider forest and alpine tundra, you will be awarded a diversity of scenery to keep you stimulated. Climbing further into the high country, you will ultimately pass the Browns Meadows Campsites, a great place to stop for the night if you are backpacking. If not, persist along the path to Snowslide Lake, Lower Caribou Lake, then onto Upper Caribou Lake.

Marvel in the beauty of the crystalline waters boarded by the towering granite buffs of Caribou Mountain. Rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly alpine waters, and when you are ready, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.