Lower Continental Falls

The Spruce Creek Trail offers a diverse and rewarding hiking experience, leading you through fragrant forests and past stunning alpine lakes. This moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) route, with 1067 feet (325 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You'll traverse through lodgepole and spruce forests, hear the creek, and eventually reach the beautiful Mayflower Lake and the serene Mohawk Lakes, which are often framed by rugged mountain walls.

Planning your visit means aiming for an early start, especially on summer weekends, as this is a popular trail and the parking lot fills up quickly. While the initial sections are gradual, expect the Spruce Creek Trail terrain to become rockier and steeper as you ascend, particularly towards the lakes. Good hiking shoes and poles are highly recommended for these more challenging parts of the trail.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Spruce Creek Trail also offers a glimpse into the region's past, with remnants of old mining cabins and equipment scattered along the way. It's a great option for those interested in both natural beauty and local history, and it also connects to other popular routes like the Wheeler Trail, offering Spruce Creek Trail loop options for longer adventures.

The Mohawk Lakes Trail offers a captivating journey through changing landscapes, starting in dense forests alongside Spruce Creek before ascending into a rugged alpine environment. You'll encounter multiple crystal-clear alpine lakes, including Mayflower Lake and the stunning Upper Mohawk Lake, which provides panoramic views of the Tenmile Range. The route is dotted with impressive waterfalls like Lower Continental Falls and historical mining relics, making for a visually rich and engaging experience.

This moderate 8.2-mile (13.3 km) hike involves a substantial 2049 feet (625 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 4 hours and 19 minutes. While the initial section is relatively gentle, expect a significantly steeper climb, particularly in the half-mile stretch leading to Lower Mohawk Lake, where grades can reach over 30%. Starting early is crucial, especially on weekends, as the trailhead parking fills up quickly, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.

What truly sets the Mohawk Lakes Trail apart is its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue; you'll pass by old cabins and mining equipment from the late 1880s, including a restored Continental Cabin. This trail is a fantastic option for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding day hike with diverse scenery, from lush forests to rocky tundra, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.