Crumbaugh Lake Trail

Overview

This is a mellow, family‑friendly out‑and‑back to a quiet alpine lake with a quirky hydrothermal surprise along the way. Starting from Kings Creek Picnic Area (~7,400 ft), it’s about 2.6 miles total to Crumbaugh Lake and back, with roughly 295 feet of cumulative gain. Expect an easy grade, wide‑open meadows, and a payoff that’s more about serenity and scenery than summit views.

Route and Highlights

The first 0.8 miles are mostly level to Cold Boiling Lake—so named for the subtle gas bubbles that “fizz” near the shoreline. It’s not a cauldron; think gentle effervescence. From there, continue roughly 0.5 miles (1.3 miles from the trailhead) on a gentle descent into broad meadows at the base of Mt. Conard to reach Crumbaugh Lake. Summer brings wildflowers and good chances to spot birds, deer, and even a flutter of California tortoiseshell butterflies. The walking is straightforward, and the meadows do the heavy lifting for views.

Extensions

Want more? From Cold Boiling Lake, you can continue about 1.9 miles farther to the rim of Bumpass Hell Basin for a 5.2‑mile round trip from Kings Creek. It’s a noticeable step up in effort with sustained climbing but rewards you with classic hydrothermal scenery. Beyond Crumbaugh Lake, the trail also drops steeply toward Mill Creek Falls and then climbs toward the park’s visitor center—great if you arrange a shuttle, tougher as an out‑and‑back because of the steep return.

Conditions and What to Expect

Parts of this corridor pass through areas affected by the 2021 Dixie Fire. The upside: big‑sky views and resilient summer wildflower displays. The downside: limited shade in burn‑scar sections and a hotter feel on sunny days. Mid‑summer often brings mosquitoes and some brushy stretches near the lake. Early in the season, lingering snow at this elevation can persist—check current conditions before you go.

Best Time to Hike

Late summer into early fall is the sweet spot for dry trail and peak meadow color. In July, bring serious bug repellent and start early to beat both crowds and heat. Morning light is kind to the meadows and usually keeps the fizzing at Cold Boiling Lake visible without harsh glare. Shoulder seasons can be beautiful but are more variable—snow and closures are common until the high country melts out.

Tips and Essentials

Park at Kings Creek Picnic Area; restrooms are typically available. No pets on park trails. Stay on signed paths, especially around hydrothermal features. Bring sun protection (shade is limited), layers for quick mountain weather shifts, and enough water. If you extend to Bumpass Hell or Mill Creek Falls, trekking poles make the steeper sections kinder. Wildlife sign (including occasional bear scat) has been reported—stay aware and give animals space.