| Cliff Lake Trail begins east of Meeker, along the South Fork of the White River, near the South Fork Campground. It can also be accessed from the south end, off Forest Road 601 on the Rifle Ranger District.From the north end, visitors start out crossing the South Fork of the White River by bridge, then through a stand of blue spruce changing to aspen and finally oak brush as they start climbing toward Spring Cave. The trail makes several switchbacks before leveling the last 1/8 mile to Spring Cave.The Cliff Lake Trail starts out 100 yards or so before reaching Spring Cave, angling back to the right. Visitors climb quickly to a sagebrush covered bench and follow it for 1/4 mile before starting up through stands of timber alternating between spruce-fir and aspen. The trail continues about three miles through this same type terrain until reaching Cliff Lake. Occasional views of South Fork Canyon to the east are available.This trail, located within the boundaries of the White River National Forest, measures 3.5 miles and is rated as "moderate". The beginning elevation is 7,600 feet and the ending elevation is 9,600 feet. This trail sees a heavy amount of usage. |
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