Lake Augusta

The way to Lake Augusta is rough. It's a steep and brushy trail that doesn't see much maintenance. But the destination is worth it; the lake is gorgeous, set in a basin at the bottom of Big Jim Mountain. It's a wonderful spot for wildflowers and backpacking trips late into the season.

From the trailhead, follow the Hatchery Creek Trail as it climbs steeply through an old burn from 2014. Be on the lookout for unstable trees in this area -- wildfire effects last for years after they come through an area.

Push your way through heavy, thick brush for 3 miles to a junction with the Badlands Trail. Some hikers use this trail, along with further connectors to create a larg, but challenging loop hike. But your way lies ahead.

Keep hiking uphill, on a ridgeline, through a meadow. From here, you'll get a break from the brush and get some views of the Enchantment areas, as well as the river valley below you. Once you leave the meadow, cross a creek, and continue climbing (it'll be over soon) to a junction with the Icicle Ridge Trail with remarkable views. Again, this trail offers several exciting loop opportunities. If you want a break, pull out your map and examine the possibilities for next time.

Once you're ready to keep moving, turn right onto the Icicle Ridge trail, which then drops in a basin full of evergreens and wildflowers. Cross another creek (this one is Cabin Creek) and climb again across open slopes to another basin, where your destination awaits you. 

Lake Augusta is 7.9 miles from the trailhead -- a relatively short distance but the hike is a draining one. If you're camping, set up camp and take a load off. Or simply plop down lakeside and enjoy the views of Big Jim Mountain. Consult that map again to see the possibilities for further wanderings once you've recovered from the hike in.