Lola-Iron Creek Trail

Dogs Off-leash

Features Lake · River/Creek · Views

This trail is used to make a lot of other connections or can be done as a couple of different loops. I am going to break it up into three parts.

Part 1: (Start to Hwy 21) The trail starts at the pass where the Trap Creek trail ends. You'll start with a steep descent into the valley for Bench Creek. After the steep descent, the trail becomes very mellow and will take you down the valley. The trail is supposed to be singletrack, but has seen some poaching lately by ATVs so you may experience a wider tread as you near highway 21. This trail is usually well maintained and trees are cut out every year.

Part 2: (Hwy 21 to Bear Valley Rd. ) The section of the trail from Hwy 21 to Bear Valley road is actually best done using Bear Valley Rd to access the top of the trail. Recently, the welcome to motorcyclists who cut out most of the trees from this trail has been cause for debate, so the conditions on the trail will vary. The trail takes you by some great lakes and nice alpine meadows. Hopefully all legal issues are worked out and the trail can return to normal maintenance that is provided by motorcyclists.

Part 3: (End to Bear Valley Rd.) This section of the trail is also best done by climbing up Bear Valley Rd and then traversing the ridge to the Lola Creek drainage. The first part of this section can have a lot of down trees, but it is worth it once you get through the burn area. You'll be treated with some great views and a sustained descent into Lola Creek. This trail has some great views of the lake drainage at the top before descending into thick trees. Down in the bottom, keep an eye out for Elk.