This high use trail follows the East Brush Creek up to both Lake Charles (4.4 miles) and Mystic Island Lake (5.7 miles) in the Holy Cross Wilderness. The trail is a gradual climb with grades less than 10%, but there are two short areas that are quite steep. There are some stream crossings and the trail is rocky with exposed tree roots. The forest type is aspen in the beginning quickly changing to a dense pine, spruce and fir stand. At the 1.5 mile mark the trail enters the Holy Cross Wilderness Area. Please practice wilderness ethics to help preserve this special resource.

SPECIAL INTERESTS
FISHING - This trail offers good fishing in three areas. East Brush Creek has rainbow, brook and brown trout. Both Lake Charles and Mystic Island Lake have Colorado native cutthroat trout.

SCENIC VIEWS - At Lake Charles there are spectacular views of Fool's Peak, 12,947 feet and there is a classic glacial cirque at the end of the valley. When arriving at the alpine lake of Mystic Island, there is a glacial tarn to the left and at 13,768 feet, Eagle peak stands behind the lake.

CAMPING
Fulford Cave campground has 7 sites with picnic tables, fire ring grills and drinking water.

Directions: From Beaver Creek, Travel west on I-70 to Eagle (exit #147). Turn left and drive into Eagle. Turn left on Capitol Street and follow to Brush Creek Road. Turn left and follow Brush Creek Road10 miles south of Eagle. Turn left onto the East Brush Creek Road, FDR 415 and drive another 6 miles. The last mile of FDR 415 is very narrow with some rocks. There is a parking lot just past the Fulford Cave campground. At the trailhead, there is an information board and a register box. A vault toilet is available for use in the campground.

Elevation: 9,400 feet

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Strenuous

Visitor Information