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Big Clear Lake


Highlights:

Major Lake in a beautiful chain deep in the Big Horn Crags
Near:Cobalt, ID
Scenery:
Distance:20 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:4934 ft
Hike Time:10.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: Big Clear lake, overlooked because of its larger and better known neighbor, Ship Island lake, is the largest of a chain of beautiful alpine lakes lying under Mount McGuire in the Big Horn Crags. Seldom visited, it offers scenic beauty, good fishing and plenty of space to camp. A toilet facility is also located near the lake. The route to this chain of lakes is the same as the Ship Island route until the junction just before Birdbill Lake. At this junction, a right turn and two miles will get you to this beautiful lake with most of the way looking over several other alpine lakes.
Trailhead: The trailhead is located near the Bighorn Crags campground. From Challis, drive 9 miles north on H 93 to the Morgan Creek Road turnoff. (on the left) Follow this pavement / gravel road for 20 miles to the Morgan Creek Summit where it becomes the Panther Creek road. Follow this road another 14 miles to the signed turn-off at Porphyry creek. Follow the Porphyry creek road 6 miles to a four way intersection. Turn right at this intersection on Forest road 114. There will be another intersection with the road to yellowjacket lake. Bear right continuing on road 114 past the Crags campground to the trailhead. Water is available at the campground before starting. (Lat:45.06235 Lon:-114.31453)
Trail Guides for Big Clear Lake:
Hiking Idaho
by Ralph & Jackie Maughn  (Falcon Guide)

Best Seasons: Fall, Summer,
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses,
Ranger Contact: Cobalt Ranger District, Salmon Natl Forest, 208 756 5100
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Don Evans, who has posted  31 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review

Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Idaho Hiking, Idaho Trails, Idaho Hikes, Lemhi County Hiking, Lemhi County Trails, Lemhi County Hikes

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