Gothic Basin - Mt Loop Hwy

Weden Creek Trail (Gothic Basin) #724

Length	3.3 miles one-way
Season of Use	Summer / Fall	Beginning Elevation	2300 feet
Visitor Use	Meduim	Ending Elevation	5000 feet
Map(s)	Green Trails Monte Cristo- #143	Level of Difficulty	Most Difficult

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/recreation/activities/trails/drd_0724.htm
Access:

From the Verlot Public Service Center, travel east on the Mountain. Loop Highway 19.5 miles to Barlow Pass. Park here and proceed on foot past the gate on the Monte Cristo Road for 1.7 miles. The trailhead is on the right (just before the Sauk River crossing).

Attractions & Considerations:

This old miners’ trail climbs steeply through timer then begins a long traverse across steep alpine terrain where various remnants of the mining days can be seen.

Even though this is one of the most spectacularly beautiful areas on the district, the trail is recommended only for experienced hikers with ice axes, as three potentially dangerous snow gullies are crossed enroute. The basin can sometimes remain snow-covered into early September. The trail ends at 19.7-acre Foggy Lake where mountaineers gain access to climb Del Campo and Gothic Peaks. Foggy Lake, which is 35 feet deep, is barren of fish and is usually frozen all year long.

Firewood is scarce or non-existent, so campers should bring stoves.