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One of the most direct ways to access the numerous lakes in the southern Sky Lakes Basin.


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Map Key

2.7

Miles

4.3

KM

Point to Point

6,124' 1,866 m

High

5,851' 1,783 m

Low

328' 100 m

Up

118' 36 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

9%

Max Grade (5°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming

The usual wilderness area restrictions and regulations apply. Both the trailhead and the trail are usually closed by snow from late October to early June (but the access road is open to snowmobiles in the winter). Expect fierce mosquitos from late June through mid-September. Part of this trail was burned by the 2017 North Pelican Fire, so be aware of the possibility of falling trees and limbs.

Description

The Cold Springs Trailhead and the Cold Springs Trail are popular ways to access the lakes at the southern end of the Sky Lakes Basin. This well graded trail runs 2.7 miles northwest from the trailhead to its end at a junction with the Sky Lakes Trail #3762.

From this junction, you can head west to meet Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (PCT) or northeast on the Sky Lakes Trail toward the Sky Lakes Area. There is a loop option back to the trailhead on the South Rock Creek Trail #3709. Note that a portion of the #3710—from the trailhead to just west of Point 6163—was burned by the 2017 North Pelican Fire. The trail is currently open and clear, but be aware of the possibility of falling trees or limbs in the months and years ahead.

Contacts

Shared By:

BK Hope

Trail Ratings

  3.0 from 2 votes

#27994

Overall
  3.0 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#914

in Oregon

#27,994

Overall
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694 Since Oct 27, 2017
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Photos

The Cold Springs Trail at the wilderness boundary, showing the impact of the 2017 North Pelican Fire.
Oct 27, 2017 near Fort Ka…, OR
At the junction with the South Rock Creek Trail #3709 - damage from the 2017 North Pelican Fire is obvious.
Oct 27, 2017 near Fort Ka…, OR
The historic shelter at the Cold Springs Trailhead
Oct 27, 2017 near Fort Ka…, OR

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

May 22, 2021
Jeremy Brady
Snow on trail after the first 1.5 miles. Some water crossings that had to be hiked around. Small bit of treefall here and there.
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