Baker Lake

While there are a few stream crossings and, of course, Baker Lake, the climb is in open sun, so carrying water is highly recommended.

From downtown Ketchum, it is a 24.2-mile drive with the last 9.1 miles on a well-maintained dirt road. Click here for directions. There is parking for about 30 cars, though the lot will fill up on summer weekends.

There are bathrooms at the trailhead.

Mid-June through early October

The trail starts with a bridge crossing of Baker Creek and then passes through a meadow dotted with trees charred by the 2013 Beaver Creek fire. Around the .4-mile mark, come to the first in a series of turns and switchbacks and take a hard right.

The climb slightly intensifies after the turn as it continues along an open ridge.  The destruction of the Beaver Creek fire remains in evidence as you pass through blackened groves.  At .8 miles, dip down towards the creek, crossing it on cut deadfall.

The trail begins to rise again, weaving along the ridge.  At about 1.4 miles, come to a signed intersection with the Apollo Creek Trail and continue straight.

At the 1.5-mile mark, the trail levels and at about 1.6 miles, come to an intersection.  Either path takes you to the lake but continue straight and hit the lake’s edge at 1.65 miles.

There are several trails that take you around the lake and any number of spots to sit and enjoy the views or have a picnic.

As you re-trace your steps, enjoy solid views of the Smokey Mountains and observe how the area is slowly healing itself after the fire.