Oyster Lake Trailhead #1825


View from Oyster Lake Trail overlooking a valley.

The Oyster Lake Trail begins at Rio Blanco County Road 17. For the first 3.5 miles, the trail crosses private property; please remain on the trail. One mile after the National Forest boundary the trail passes Bailey Lake and Swede Lake; both provide excellent trout fishing. The trail then climbs 2 miles to Nimerick Point on the westernmost part of the Flat Tops plateau, and the cover changes from oak brush to aspen and grassy parks. The trail turns south and follows the rim above the South Fork of the White River before turning east to Clam Lake. Dense timber gives way to larger parks as the trail continues 4 miles to Oyster Lake. Two miles east of Oyster Lake the trail reaches large meadows at the headwaters of Lost Solar Creek. The next 2 miles of the trail follow a timber-covered ridge until it emerges onto alpine tundra for the last 4 miles to the Wall Lake Trail. The major peaks of the Flat Tops are visible during this stretch.

This trail provides access to Flat Tops Wilderness where Wilderness regulations apply.

Print a trail description and map (.pdf)

Oyster Lake reflects white clouds on the water. View from Oyster Lake Trail overlooking a valley.

At a Glance

Usage: Medium
Restrictions:
Closest Towns: Meeker, CO
Water: Intermittently along trail. Treat all water before consuming.
Restroom: Bury all human waste 6 inches deep & at least 100 ft. from water.
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center: Blanco Ranger District, 970-878-4039

General Information

Directions:

The Oyster Lake Trailhead is located 22 miles east of Meeker, CO.

From Meeker, CO take Colorado Highway 13 east for 1 mile, then turn right (east) on Rio Blanco County Road 8 and follow this for 20 miles. Turn south on Rio Blanco County Road 17, for 1 mile to the Oyster Lake Trailhead. Limited parking is available.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Riding

Big Game Hunting

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
22.8 miles

  Latitude : 
39.978275

  Longitude : 
-107.619311

  Elevation : 
6995' - 11195'