Lake Fork Trail

Overview

Lake Fork Trail (#2) follows the Lake Fork of Rock Creek from a forested canyon to high-alpine country dotted with lakes, ending at Sundance Pass. It’s 9.5 miles one way to the pass (19.0 miles round-trip), open to hikers and horseback riders, with dogs allowed. The first miles are steady and forgiving; after the 6‑mile mark the grade steepens toward the alpine basin and the pass just over 11,000 feet.

Route Highlights and Mileposts

Expect a string of scenic targets that make great turnarounds: Broadwater Lake (3.75 mi), Lost Lake junction (5.0 mi; 0.3‑mi spur), Keyser Brown Lake junction (6.0 mi; 0.6‑mi spur), September Morn Lake (~8.0 mi), and Sundance Pass (9.5 mi). The tread is well‑defined to the lake junctions, then grows rockier and more exposed as you climb toward the pass.

Difficulty and Time

Plan your day around how far you go. A popular high‑country outing to September Morn Lake via the Lower Lake Fork approach is about 14.8 miles round‑trip and typically takes 7–8 hours. Strong parties combine Lake Fork with the West Fork Rock Creek Trail over Sundance Pass for a point‑to‑point (around 20.5 miles) that takes roughly 12–14 hours and requires a car shuttle. Expect thinner air and a stout final climb after mile 6.

Season, Conditions, and Best Times

The corridor is commonly snow‑free at lower elevations from May into November, but the pass often isn’t reliably open until mid‑July. Spring brings high creek flows and lingering snow patches; early travelers sometimes use microspikes for firm morning snow near the pass. Start early for cooler temps and steadier footing, and keep an eye on mountain weather. Winter access shifts to the Lower Lake Fork Trail (#2A), a groomed/winter route when the road beyond the gate is closed.

Access and Logistics

From US‑212, turn west at the signed Lake Fork turnoff and drive about 1.9–2.0 miles to the main trailhead with ample parking and a vault toilet. Note: the road typically closes Dec 2–Apr 14 at the Lions Camp gate about 0.5 mile up the road. In years with flood damage or washouts, hikers have occasionally parked lower and walked an extra mile via the "winter" Lower Lake Fork (#2A) to reach the main trail.

Wildlife and Safety

You’re in the Absaroka‑Beartooth Wilderness—carry bear spray, make noise in brushy sections, and manage food properly. Moose are seen regularly along the creek and lakes. Dogs are allowed; a leash is strongly recommended around wildlife and busy sections. Trekking poles help with creek crossings and the steeper upper miles.

Notes on Uses and Alternatives

The main Lake Fork Trail (#2) is for hiking and horseback; the Lower Lake Fork connector (#2A) also allows biking and serves as a popular winter approach. If you want a grand traverse with nonstop views, the West Fork → Sundance Pass → Lake Fork shuttle day is a local classic; if you prefer a mellower outing, Broadwater Lake is a rewarding half‑day without the punishing climb.