Iron Bog Lake Trail

Wander through communities of sagebrush, trek above a meandering stream, and hike beneath the canopy of alpine firs on the Iron Bog Lake Hike. While most hikes that climb high into the alpine are made more manageable with the help of switchbacks, this lovely adventure lacks these helpful tools—instead, it ascends straight up into the basin. Get a wicked workout in as you enjoy wonderful views, there is really no better way to get exercise. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and wear SPF to avoid overexposure on the unshaded path. Note the road to the trailhead is rough and rugged, so vehicles with high ground clearance are recommended.

Embark on your journey up to the crystalline lake from the trailhead off the National Forest Development Road 220. Setting out from here you will be guided westwardly, climbing through a patch of pine before opening into the exposed meadowlands. Contouring the ridges above Iron Bog Creek, you will be granted great views of the forested valley below and the barren mountains above. Take your time and rest as needed. After some hiking, you will be granted a brief retreat from the sun beneath the shade of a pine tree stand—take advantage of the canopy. Beyond this point, the path will curve northward, climbing up to the crest of Iron Bog Lake.

Explore the shoreline of the crystalline pool and admire the scene of flanking bluffs adorned with spruce firs, alpine firs, and ponderosa pines. When you are through reveling in the gorgeous setting, head back the way you came to the trailhead.