Capitol Creek Trail

While it certainly won’t be for everyone, the Capitol Creek Trail is the ideal journey for those adventurers who want to explore a long and physically demanding route through the Elk Mountains while taking in the gorgeous scenery of Capitol Peak.

Setting out from the trailhead at the edge of Capitol Creek Road, you will make your way to the southwest and descend the hillside to meet up with the banks of Capitol Creek. Here, you will follow along the winding banks of the creek as it cuts south across the beautiful valley, offering scenic views of nearby mountains like Haystack Mountain and Mount Daly.

After passing by the Capitol Lake backcountry campsite, you will skirt around the shores of Capitol Lake itself, before heading uphill to the southwest through a mountain pass. At the top of the pass, you will enjoy some breathtaking views of Capitol Peak to the southeast, before descending the steep switchback trail of the pass to arrive at the edge of Avalanche Creek. After pausing for a brief rest, you will back track along the same route through the pass, working your way back through the valley on the way to the trailhead where you started.