Kite Lake
Total Miles
6.2
Elevation
3,697.72 ft
Duration
2 Hours
Technical Rating
Best Time
Summer, Fall
Trail Overview
Kite Lake trail is an enjoyable 6-mile in-and-out run. It is less traveled than many of the Jeep trails closer to Silverton, but there is both Jeep and ATV traffic. This appears to be a fairly deep lake with a beautiful blue color. This trip will take up much of a day. Stony Pass moves right along, but the road to Kite Lake is slow. There are mud holes, rocks, and a few ledges that seldom allow you to pick up speed. Begin the trail with a chance to dip your tires in the Rio Grande. Solid, rocky bottom. There is less flow later in the summer. The lower part of the trail is through a wide open valley with views of the surrounding countryside. The upper part of the trail travels in and out of the trees but is always interesting. There is a small wetland where the road is down in the valley of Bear Creek. Kite lake drains into Bear Creek. There is still evidence of the original corduroy road crossing a wet spot. Kite Lake and the surrounding basin are beautiful. Great spot if you are there for lunch.
Photos of Kite Lake
Difficulty
Uneven, rutted dirt trail with loose rocks, sand, erosion, and washes. Potential water crossings up to 18" deep, mud holes, and obstacles up to 2 feet, including ledges and short, steep grades.
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