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Lake Charles #1899
The Lake Charles Trail begins near the Fulford Cave Campground, passes Lake Charles and ends at Mystic Island Lake. The trail follows East Brush Creek up to both Lake Charles (4.1 mi) and Mystic Island Lake (4.7) in the Holy Cross Wilderness where regulations apply. It is a generally a gradual climb with two short areas that are quite steep. The trail is rocky with exposed tree roots and a few stream crossings passing through aspen changing to dense pine, spruce and fir. Lake Charles has a spectacular view of Fool’s Peak, 12, 947 ft. and a classic glacial cirque at the end of the valley above Mystic Island Lake.
View a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail which contains directions, a map, details, and other information.
At a Glance
| Permit Info: | Each party staying overnight in the Holy Cross Wilderness is required to self-register at the trailhead and to carry a copy of the free registration with them during their visit. |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Restrictions: | See Holy Cross Wilderness Regulations |
| Closest Towns: | Eagle, CO |
| Water: | No potable water |
| Restroom: | Vault Toilet (1) at Campground |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:From I-70 exit 147 for Eagle, CO turn south on Eby Creek Rd to the Route 6 roundabout. At the roundabout, turn right (west) on Route 6/Grand Ave and travel 0.8 miles to next roundabout. At this roundabout, take the third right onto Sylvan Lake Road. Continue 1.6 miles to Brush Creek Road, and take a right on Brush Creek Road. Follow Brush Creek Road for roughly 9 miles to the fork of East and West Brush Creek.Turn left onto East Brush Creek Road (FDR 415) and drive 6 miles until you reach the parking lot and trailhead information board. The trailhead is to the right of the board starting at the gate, stay to the left at the “Y.”
To the right is the access to Ironedge Trail #1873.
Activities
Lake and Pond Fishing
| Special Designations | The Colorado Division of Wildlife sets fishing regulations. Obtain their Colorado Fishing Regulations handbook for regulations. |
River and Stream Fishing
| Special Designations | The Colorado Division of Wildlife sets fishing regulations. Obtain their Colorado Fishing Regulations handbook for regulations. |
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Location