Lower Cataract Lake Loop #57

Lower Cataract Lake Loop #57 is a loop trail in the Eagles Nest Wilderness, part of the Dillon Ranger District of Colorado's White River National Forest. The Forest Service manages the land, and the trail can be hiked in either direction. From the trailhead, Cataract Falls lies across the lake, and the route passes through meadows that are especially colorful with wildflowers in mid to late June. The trail is a good choice for families, with lake, mountain and meadow scenery along the way. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station at Green Mt Dam, which sits about 900 feet lower than the trail, show July highs around 79°F and lows near 44°F, while June runs a little cooler with highs around 74°F. The trail is not reservable. A printable Recreation Quicksheet is available with directions, a map and other details. Cataract Creek Campground is about half a mile away, and the Eaglesmere Trail and Surprise Trail both start within a third of a mile. Upper Cataract Lake #63 is about 2 miles off.