A specific outing is described below. Source checks are dated; weather, closures, operating hours, and reservations can change before your trip.
Coldwater Creek to Emerald Lake
Follow the Coldwater–George Trail to the Emerald Lake fork, then take the signed left-hand route toward the lake. Return the same way for a simpler outing.
- Activity
- Wilderness hike
- Distance / format
- Out-and-back; Emerald fork about 1 mile up the approach
- Effort / terrain
- Mountain dirt trail; additional distance beyond the junction
- Start here
- Coldwater Creek Trailhead, at the far end of Coldwater Campground
Good to know
The one-mile figure is to the junction, not the total hike. The Emerald–Skelton section enters designated wilderness; do not bring a bicycle. A Skelton Lake loop is a longer trip.
Details checked November 10, 2026 · Source & current notices ↗
Plan with official information
Use the official source for current closures, fees, reservations, and permitted activities. This directory is independent and does not issue permits.
Official destination information ↗