Smith Cr - Red Top Ridge Trail #21

The trailhead (elevation 4200 feet) is located one mile up Road #2446. The trail follows the old roadbed for 1/2 mile to a registration box for both Trails #21 and #347.

The trail leaves the roadbed here. It angles back up slope at a 10% grade then switchbacks again and continues at a gentle grade to junction with Trail #347 (elevation 4740 feet) at the 1 mile.

From here the trail continues to the 1 1/4 mile and the historic West Fork Cabin. The 14x16 foot cabin, situated at one end of a small meadow, was built in 1931 to house "smokechasers." In 1998 the cabin burned down and was rebuilt in 1999 to resemble the original cabin. This cabin is open to the public but has seen heavy use over the years and should be treated with care to minimize impact.

The trail continues through big cedar spruce and alpine fir, alternating with more open, brushy areas at a gentle 10% grade. There are seasonal drainages crossed by wooden walkways along the trail.

At 2 3/4 mile the trail starts climbing toward a small saddle. The trail ends at the 3 1/4 mile and the junction with Trail #102 (elevation 5800 feet), with a view of Hidden Lake.

USGS Quad(s): Grass Mountain, Shorty Peak, Smith Peak

IPNF Visitor Maps & Guides
View an elevation profile of the trail.
View a more detailed map of the trail area.