Raspberry Spring via Inner Basin Trail

The Lockett Meadow Inner Basin is renowned for its gorgeous views, and the Raspberry Spring via Inner Basin Trail is one of the routes you can use to explore this beautiful area. The basin is underneath the tallest mountains in the state, and the path to it takes you through a beautiful aspen forest. In the fall when the aspens turn color, this is definitely the place to be.

This hike takes you through beautifully varied terrain, leading from the campsite through the pine trees and aspens, and up to the foothills for some amazing mountain views. We recommend timing this hike for when the wildflowers are in bloom, which tends to be early-mid summer, or when the fall colors are at their best, which is normally late September through late October.

The trailhead for the Raspberry Spring via Inner Basin Trail is at the very back of the day-use parking area. You’ll start by hiking through a mature pine forest. Since most of the elevation gain on this hike occurs near the midpoint, you can enjoy a fairly relaxed beginning. The pine trees give way to aspens, and the contrast of the white bark against green grass is a treat to see. There are occasionally people and families taking photos in these trees. In the fall, it’s spectacular.

Begin a set of switchbacks towards the inner basin. Once there, the route will take you to its endpoint at the spring. From here, turn back and retrace your steps.