Lake Dorothy Trail

Lake Dorothy is a calm, tranquil alpine lake settled into a mountain valley, flanked by two smaller lakes to the southwest. This is a lovely day hike or short backpacking adventure, although the unpredictable maintenance of the road to the trail, which is subject to washout, may unexpectedly extend your hike by 4.0mi. Bring flip-flops if this is the case, as it tends to be wet!

The hike begins at the end of the road, following a well-maintained track along the East Fork of Miller River through the valley. The elevation gain is mild for the first stretch. There is a stream crossing before the trail wraps to the right near the foot of the lake.

A spur trail on your right leads to the lakeshore, but continue on the main trail to wrap around the eastern shore of the lake and around the southern end. You can end your hike anywhere along this section, but if you want to add some length, take the switchbacks that head up the ridge to Bear and Deer Lake. It’s a short, steep sprint to a nice vantage point over all three lakes.

When you’re ready, retrace your steps to the road.