Esmeralda Basin Loop

Esmeralda Basin is punctuated by the Esmeralda Peaks, providing great mountain views. It’s especially pretty when autumn makes everything red and gold. This loop approach offers a longer hike with more diverse scenery than the out and back approach, but it is more difficult. Some prefer the scenery on the out and back trail.

You can hike this loop either way. You’ll either begin by heading left from the trailhead and hiking below the western flanks of Esmeralda Peaks, following the creek before climbing to Gallagher Head Lake and keeping right to the fork. Going right at the fork, there’s more climbing to get onto the northeastern side of the peaks, eventually dropping south and hiking alongside the creek back to the trailhead. You can also start right and go counter-clockwise, which would require more steep descents than ascents.