Mt. Elwell Trail

This trail is best done going north. During the climb up the south side, for the last tenth of a mile or so, the trail becomes pretty steep and rocky so be sure to watch your step. The trail passes right next to the summit block at the top of the mountain. The views from here are great, with the Feather River in the valley to the north and the Lakes Basin to the south.

The descent down the north face immediately becomes steep and rocky. It's worth looking at it before plunging in. The whole descent is doable, but there are definitely a few steep, loose, and rocky sections. Farther down it becomes smooth and less rocky, with some wide turns. At the bottom, you'll intersect the Smith Lake Trail, where you can go left and in a few minutes be relaxing at the edge of the water in a beautiful alpine setting.