Tower–Roosevelt Area

Lost Lake Trail

Distance: 4 miles round-trip
Duration: 2-3 hours
Elevation: 6,300 feet
Effort: moderate
Trailhead: behind Roosevelt Lodge [1]

This trail climbs 300 feet in elevation through forested hills to Lost Lake, where you can either return via the Roosevelt Horse Trail or contour along the hillside to the Petrified Tree parking area, where another path loops back to the lodge. Black bears are often seen in the area, so stay alert.

Mt. Washburn

Distance: 6 miles round-trip
Duration: 3-6 hours
Elevation: 8,850 feet with a 1,400-foot elevation gain
Effort: moderately strenuous
Trailheads: Dunraven Pass parking area (14 miles south of Tower Junction [2] on the Tower-Canyon Road) or Chittenden Road parking area (9 miles south of Tower Junction)

This outstanding and extremely popular day hike is accessible from two different trailheads along the Tower-Canyon Road, both of which are equal in length and in elevation gained. Either route ascends 10,243-foot Mt. Washburn on a wide path, and the north end is open to mountain bikes. The summit provides commanding vistas in all directions, with a shelter at the base of the fire lookout (which has telescopes, water, and toilets).

Many wildflowers bloom in midsummer, and bighorn sheep are frequently seen right along the trail. Bring warm clothes and rain gear because conditions on top may be much cooler and windier than below. Mornings are the best time to climb Mt. Washburn since afternoon thunderstorms often roll in during the summer. The Dunraven Pass parking area is often full, but space is generally available at the north trailhead.