San Isabel National Forest
Stout Lakes Trail #1403

This difficult, 5 mile trail climbs into the northern Sangre de Cristo Wilderness to a couple of small fishing lakes above treeline. The trail sees most use in the summer and fall.

Elevations:

• Trail beginning: 8,200'
• High Point: 11,761'
• Trail ending: 11,761'

Access: Turn south at Kerr Gulch Road off of US 50 (1.5 miles east of Howard or 4 miles west of Hayden Creek). Go about 3.5 miles south to a fork in the road. Bear right on the rocky road and go about 3/4 of a mile to the parking area.

Notes: There's an information kiosk at the parking area. The trail is directly behind it. About 3/4 miles in, you'll come to the Rainbow Trail. Go right (north) on the Rainbow Trail for about 1/4 mile to the Stout Lakes Trailhead and go left. The trail is quite steep as it climbs through small, narrow canyons past a couple of waterfalls into a narrow cirque near the top of the Sangre de Cristo's. The distance and elevation numbers given here are for the lower Stout Lake. Most folks who make this trip spend the night in this beautiful and quiet setting.

USGS Maps: Wellsville, Bushnell Peak