San Isabel National Forest
Tunnel Lake Trail #1451

This moderate-to-difficult 5 mile trail just below the Continental Divide on the east side sees most of its traffic in the summer and fall, especially during wildflower season: this is one of those areas that nature photographers flock to for pristine alpine scenery.

Elevations:

• Trail beginning: 11,080'
• High Point: 11,950'
• Trail ending: 11,950'

Access: From Nathrop, go about 17 miles west on County Road 162 to the junction with Forest Road 295 (near St. Elmo). Turn south on FR 295 and go about 5.5 miles to the townsite of Hancock (there's almost nothing left except the sign).

Notes: The trail follows the old railroad grade up to the Alpine Tunnel (long since closed) and then up a steep hill for about 3/4 of a mile until you're above treeline. From there you'll follow a series of rock cairns. Tunnel Lake is visible to the northeast and you'll have to descend from the trail down to the lake. Technically, the Tunnel Lake Trail ends at this point and trail #1439 continues to the north, crossing the Wildcat Gulch drainage before descending steeply into the drainage of the North Fork of Chalk Creek and ending at the Tincup Pass Road (a 4WD road coming west from St. Elmo).

USGS Maps: St. Elmo, Cumberland Pass