Oct 11-12, 2008
Trailmaster: James Anthony
Barrett Lake is in the Crystal Basin Recreation area off of Highway 50, just south of the Rubicon Trail. The trail begins at Wrights Lake, is approximately six miles long and is only open for a few select weeks each year. The USFS limits access to the trail to prevent overuse and damage. The gate at the entrance to the trail is reported to be only 79 inches wide and was erected by the United States Forrest Service up to discourage fullsize vehicles from continuing down the trail, where they would encounter similar, natural width restrictions. (credit: www.4x4wire.com )
The Barrett Lake Jeep Trail is rated by some to be tougher than the Rubicon because there are no bypasses or alternate routes around tougher sections of trail. The trail is a dead-end, so you leave the way you came in and it is about 6 miles long. The trail lies in an environmentally sensitive area on the border of Desolation Wilderness. Deviating from the established trail, driving onto Desolation Wilderness land or walking onto Desolation Wilderness without a permit has and will result in forest service fines. Please Tread Lightly so the trail will remain open for future generations. (credit: www.duneguide.com )
| LOCATION: |
The Barrett Lake Trailhead is located at Dark Lake just North of Wrights Lake and 8 miles north of Highway 50. |
| CAMPGROUND NAME: |
Barrett Lake is open to dry camping - no campfires |
| ELEVATION: |
7,500' |
| COST PER NIGHT: |
none |
| FACILITIES: |
None at the lake. RV's could camp in one of the nearby campgrounds and make the day trip in. |
| TYPE AND DIFFICULTY OF TERRAIN: |
Short trail but some difficult sections. Vehicle should have good clearance, 33" or larger tires, traction-aided differentials or locker recommended. |
| GOOD FOR VEHICHLE TYPE: |
4x4 vehicles |
| SPECIAL SUPPLIES NEEDED, IF ANY: |
Tow ropes, tools, and spare parts are always a good idea. Fishing pole and gear could lead to some additional fun! |
| TIME OF DEPARTURE: |
TBD |
| DEPARTURE LOCATION: |
TBD |
| COMMENTS: |
This trail is adopted and maintained by the Hi-Landers 4x4 club |
| TRAILMASTERS: |
James Anthony |
| ADDITIONAL INFO: |
USDA Forest Services Website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/eldorado/conditions/ohv/ |
