Chango Lake - FS32062

Trail Overview

This trail starts off as a nicely graded road into the Toiyabe National Forest (4WD with some clearance recommended), which the Pickle Meadow Marine Mountain Warfare Training Base maintains. Once on FS road 32062, about midway, you will come to what looks like an abandoned ski lift. It is not abandoned; this is utilized in the winter by the Pickle Meadow Marine base for their winter warfare training. Please leave everything as you have found it. Feel free to take pictures and nothing else. You will take the road under the lift, and the road will turn to dirt, ruts, and big cobblestone rocks. The trail is only about a Jeep Wrangler width and becomes narrower the farther back you go. You will encounter some overgrown spots, so be prepared for possible scratches on your vehicle. You will need 4WD and possibly 4LO on this road. At the end, there is a small turnaround where the road dead ends. You will also come to a marker that states "route closed." This is an old decommissioned jeep route to the top of the ridge. You must hike to the top; no vehicles are allowed. From this turnaround, you can access Chango Lake. This is a shallow swimming lake, it seems to be fishless as it was poisoned years ago to kill off the non native planter trouts. Chango Lake is about 1,000 yards of country travel in the ravine to the east. You will hike in a northern direction. You can see the lake within the trees. This is a great lunch hike spot, primitive campsites are along the higher shoreline. Not very visited. You will more than likely have this route and lake to yourself. Keep in mind that the Marines might be practicing warfare back here, so please keep out of their way. As always, practice Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly ethics, get a campfire permit, and keep in mind there is no cell service.

Photos of Chango Lake - FS32062

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Difficulty

Once past the military ski lift, the road becomes narrow and rocky. There is a slope that is decomposed granite and narrow. You may encounter snow early in the season. Please use caution. Recommend 4WD and 4LO in spots along the way.

History

Main road is maintained by the Pickle Meadow Marine Winter Warfare Base. The Marines practice back here all year long.

Technical Rating