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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
558 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Lake Stuart Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Lake Stuart is a beautiful alpine lake in the aptly named Alpine Lakes Wilderness and a fantastic moderate day hike. Sharing a trail with the renowned Colchuck Lake, you could easily visit both in one go or make a backpacking trip out of it. Expect moderate traffic on this trail. Enjoy lots of wildflowers in the early summer.

Route Description for Lake Stuart Trail

While more hikers begin at the Lake Stuart Trailhead bound for Colchuck Lake, Stuart is also well worth your time. This is a moderate, beautiful hike with more wildflowers and a bit less intensity than the Colchuck Lake hike. If you wanted to use this trail to see both in a day, you certainly could.

Begin from the trailhead. The first mile and a half is gradual, hiking through a forest that becomes less dense the further you get. You’ll cross over to the right bank of Mountaineer Creek. From here, things pick up as the trail begins to steepen.

The trail splits, with the left-hand branch going up to Colchuck. Stay right and enjoy a flatter section of trail until the final push up to Lake Stuart. Rest up by the shores and enjoy the views before retracing your steps back to the parking lot.

Insider Hints for Lake Stuart Trail

  • Permits are required if you plan to camp.
  • Bug spray is recommended for this hike.

Getting to the Lake Stuart Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Lake Stuart Trail is at the Lake Stuart Trailhead on Forest Service Road 7601.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Lake Stuart Backcountry

  • When to do:

    June-October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Lake Stuart Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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