Tuesday, May 21st.
Bus leaves ACAA at 8:00 a.m. sharp
The Gem Lake TH at 8,650' el., starts from a paved parking lot. Trail offers hikers an easy to moderate start before it gains elevation to Gem Lake. This is a popular trail with flatlanders visiting the park. You may meet people from all parts of the country any day of the week.
Trail wanders through stands of Ponderosa and Lodgepole pine. The elevation gain will get your heart thumping but nothing that will cause your thighs to burn out of control. A stretch of log and rock steps will be the primary mode to take hikers to Gem Lake.
 |
| A hiker climbs a section of log steps. |
There are some sections of trail where runoff is flowing directly down trail. Try your best not to make a new path. Walk on the edges of running or standing water. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended today.
There are areas of devastating pine beetle kill but don't be discouraged, there is plenty of wonderful scenery and many spots to stop and capture the beauty of the Park.
Gem Lake Trail continues past the lake to a junction with Balance Rock Trail. From there, it's only one mile to Balanced Rock. Trail has some ups and downs but is tame compared to the climb hikers made to get to the lake.
Balanced Rock is located at 8,805' el., and is likely to be the site for lunch.
Canopy on this hike is 90% or better. Be sure to apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) before you leave the TH and again throughout the day. Pack rain gear and adequate water. Hikers are encouraged to use their poles on the descent. Many log and rock steps are high and deep. Poles can take up to 30% of the impact to knees and ankles, if used properly. Enjoy the hike to Balanced Rock.
Total miles = 7.6
Total elevation gain = 1,260'
No comments:
Post a Comment