Mount Zirkel Area - Pack Trip

[BridgerLake]

I'm planning a pack trip into the Mount Zirkel Wilderness area this summer with my boys. Has anyone been in there before that could give me some advice? Thought about starting at the North Fork trailhead but I am open to other suggestions...coming from Utah.

I'm looking for general information: horse trailer access, horse trails, best fishing lakes/creeks, camping spots, snow pack, bears, etc. I've been to a few Internet sites which has been very informative, but would like to speak with someone who has actually been there...I'm happy to converse via PM if you prefer.

DWF

 

[cobowhunter]

Hi,

I use to hike up to Rainbow Lake with a group of friends every Labor Day weekend. The trailhead is located SW of Delaney Buttes lakes and there was parking for horse trailers. The first mile is pretty steep, but not too bad the rest of the way to rainbow Lake (4 total miles). We would camp near Rainbow and take day hikes up to the Slide Lakes (another 2 miles and fairly steep). The flyfishing was better at Slide Lake. The second lake down from Rainbow was pretty good also. There are 5 lakes in this area and they are arial stocked. Seems to me that we caught mostly rainbows up to 14"s. Try also posting your message on Flyfisherman.com - Rocky Mountain region for assistance.

Mark

 

[BridgerLake]

Mark,

Great information...me and my boys are looking forward to the fishing and camping. I'll look into the Rainbow Lake area. Thanks again.

Is there anyone who has used the North Fork trailhead and been to the Encampment Meadows area?

DWF