Snowshoe Trail

Snowshoe Trail is a 10.2-mile (16.4-km) out-and-back from the Red Rock Canyon upper parking lot to the Snowshoe backcountry campground and cabin area. It follows a broad former fire road through forest openings, meadows and avalanche slopes, then returns the same way. Budget about five hours. The route is a long, mostly gentle climb rather than a short summit push, making it a moderate half-day walk. The elevation samples place the campground about 245 m above the lot, though one published figure lists 150 m of gain, so plan for the longer climb.

From the upper lot, follow the Snowshoe route straight into the valley. At about 4.6 km, the Goat Lake path branches right; stay on the main road toward Snowshoe. The walk alternates shaded forest with open meadow and old creek beds. Bauerman Creek lies in the valley bottom and may be easier to hear than see from the road. The wide tread is also used by cyclists and horseback riders, so share the route.

The road began as a fire road and later served the Fire and Warden cabin, now called Snowshoe Cabin. The gabled cabin, with its pair of snowshoes mounted above the doorway, is the route’s most distinctive photo stop. The campground is a backcountry destination; an overnight stay requires a reservation and permit. Routes toward Twin Lakes, Lost Lake, Castle Divide and Avion Ridge continue beyond Snowshoe, but those are extensions—the 10.2-mile hike turns around here.

The Red Rock Canyon Loop is a separate 0.7-km walk near the same access. Choose it if you want to see the canyon without committing to the long valley road and return.