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Russian Lakes Trail Upper & Lower
Russian River Campground and access road are closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The closure is in place throughout the winter for public safety as construction and tree felling operations may occur at any time the environmental conditions allow. The Forest Service anticipates the first day for reservation arrivals in the campground will be June 5, 2023, prior to the opening of the sockeye salmon sport fishing season.The campground may open earlier on a first come first serve basis.
For those planning to hike Russian Lakes Trail or make reservations at the Barber, Aspen Flats or Upper Russian Lakes Cabins while the closure is in effect, please be aware that there is no access from the Lower Russian Lakes trailhead. Access and parking to the trail and cabins are available from the trailhead on Snug Harbor Road.
The Russian River Campground closure remains in effect until June 5, 2023.
A 21 mile multiple-use trail from Russian River Campground to Cooper Lake Road. Trail follows the valley of the Russian River, past Lower and Upper Russian Lakes then gradually climbs to the area at the head of Cooper Lake. Mostly wooded with frequent open areas with views of mountians and lakes. Snow can remain on the upper end of the trail into the early part of June.
At a Glance
| Restrictions: | Russian Lakes Trail is closed to motorized vehicles year round between Russian River Campground and Upper Russian Lake Cabin. The remainder of the trail is closed to motorized vehicles from May 1- November 30. Russian Lakes Trail is closed to pack/saddle stock from April 1- June 30. |
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General Information
Directions:Lower (north) end: At mile 52.6 Sterling Highway turn south into Russian River Campground. Trailhead parking area is 1 mile further. Winter parking is at campground entrance station.
Upper (east) end: At mile 48 Sterling Highway in Cooper Landing turn south onto Snug Harbor Road. This turns into Cooper Lake Road after 9 miles. It is 3 miles further to the trailhead parking area. Winter parking is at 0.3 mile Cooper Lake Road.
Activities
Mountain Biking
The upper part of the trail can hold snow until early June. Trail can be muddy following spring/early summer melt off. Sections of this trail can become overgrown with tall grasses from mid summer on.
Dispersed Camping
Designated backcountry campsites at Russian River Rendzvous, Barber Cabin Trail, mile 5.7, mile 7.7, Upper Russian Lake (mile 11.9), mile 17, and mile 19.2 (distances from lower end). Most sites include bear resistant food lockers.
Day Hiking
2.4 miles to Russian River Falls viewing platforms from spur trail at mile 1.4
3.4 miles to Lower Russian Lake and Barber Cabin from spur trail at mile 2.6
| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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Backpacking
Can combine with Resurrection River Trail for 32 mile (from lower trailhead) or 21 mile (from upper trailhead) through hike.
Horse Riding
Viewing Wildlife
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Fairly easy 4 mile ski to Barber Cabin though conditions can be icy. The 6 mile section between Lower Russian Lake and Aspen Flats does not see much winter use and can be a difficult and hazardous ski with many steep hills and avalanche paths to cross.