Copyright: Unknown Elk doe

After crossing the Squaw Creek bridge, the trail makes a steady, gradual climb through a mixed old growth spruce-fir timber stand. About half a dozen switchbacks are made in the trail to reduce the steepness of the 1,500 feet elevation gain from the trail's beginning to Squaw Lake. From Squaw Lake to the Continental Divide, the lower segment is very steep for about 1/2 mile after crossing the Squaw Lake Dam. The upper segment is a gradual, steady climb to the Continental Divide. This segment is not defined well, but hikers should have little trouble spotting the Continental Divide Trail in the open treeless area above Squaw Lake.

Directions from Creede: Drive southwest from Creede on Highway 149 for about 20 miles to the intersection of Highway 149 and Forest Development Road 520 (Upper Rio Grande River Road). Take Forest Road 520 approximately 10 miles to Thirty Mile Campground. Take the Squaw Creek Trail (Forest Development Trail 814) from the campground. Follow the trail for about 6 miles. Look for the bridge crossing on Squaw Creek. Cross the bridge and you are on Squaw Lake Trail (Forest Trail 890); there are no signs at the Squaw Lake and Squaw Creek Trail junction. A parking area is located within Thirty Mile Campground and pack stock unloading and packing facilities are located 1/4 and 1/2 mile, respectively, along the Rio Grande Reservoir Road just before reaching the campground.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Open: Late June-Early July through September .

Squaw Creek Trail - The trail primarily parallels Squaw Creek from Thirty Mile Campground to the Continental Divide. Good fishing is possible along Squaw Creek and nice camping areas are easy to find along the trail.