Swift Creek Trail

The alpine terrain is awaiting your exploration. This adventure can be completed as a strenuous day hike or epic overnight expedition, assuming you have the wilderness permits. Whichever way you choose to complete this adventure, we can guarantee you will be impressed by the diversity of scenery. Note this path can be difficult if you follow it after a snowfall, so if you head out in the winter months, be sure to download the trail GPS. Additionally, much of this hike travels over uneven, rocky terrain, so make sure you wear comfortable footwear.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Swift Creek Trail travels northwestwardly through the forested valley. Wandering along Swift Creek, you will be lulled into a state of relaxation. Enjoy the sounds of the gurgling water and the sights of the mixed conifer forests and wildflowers as you climb. The further you ascend into the high country, the sparser will the tree canopy become. Eventually, you will reach an intersection, and continue straight along the Swift Creek Trail, which will guide you into a meadow to Foster’s Cabin. Here you will likely notice backpackers setting up their tents.

Persist along the route all the way up to Horseshoes Lake, a charming alpine lake. If you still have gas left in the tank, climb the Ward Lake Trail up to Ward Lake. You will be granted inspiring views of the mountainous landscape that lines the horizon from here. When you are ready, head back along the path the way you came, all the way to the trailhead.