Name: East Crater Trail #48
Rating: 3.0

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Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Lake

The usual federal wilderness area regulations and restrictions apply here. There may also be additional wilderness-specific restrictions in force; check with the district office if in doubt. Practice Leave No Trace (LNT) backcountry skills and ethics. Camp 100 feet from fragile areas; bury human waste at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. This trail is usually closed by snow from November to June.

Description

This moderately used trail is one of the main access routes from the east into the central part of Indian Heaven Wilderness. From East Crater Trailhead on Forest Road 6035, the trail climbs gradually through a thick mountain hemlock forest, past a series of small meadows, shallow lakes, and ponds. It climbs gradually into alpine forests of noble and true fir before reaching the shore of Junction Lake, at an elevation of 4,730 feet. The #48 ends here at a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail (USFS #2000) near the junction with Lemei Lake Trail #179. Mosquitos can be an issue during the summer months but hikes and backpacks in early Fall can avoid the bugs while enjoying colored foliage and moderate temperatures.