This trail begins east of Meeker, along the South Fork of the White River, near the South Fork Campground. It can also be accessed from the south end, off Forest Road 601 on the Rifle Ranger District.

From the north end, you start out crossing the South Fork of the White River by bridge, then through a stand of blue spruce changing to aspen and finally oak brush as you start climbing toward Spring Cave. The trail makes several switchbacks before leveling the last 1/8 mile to Spring Cave. The Cliff Lake Trail starts out 100 yards or so before you reach Spring Cave, angling back to the right. You climb quickly to a sagebrush covered bench and follow it for 1/4 mile before starting up through stands of timber alternating between spruce-fir and aspen. The trail continues about three miles through this same type terrain until reaching Cliff Lake. Occasional views of South Fork Canyon to the east are available.

Directions: From Meeker, Cliff Lake and Spring Cave Trails are located 29 miles east of Meeker. Take State Highway 13 east out of Meeker for one mile; turn right on County Road 8 for 18 miles to the South Fork Road (County Road 10) Turn right for two miles, then jog left 1/4 mile, then right for 10 miles to the South Fork Campground and trailhead. From the trailhead, follow the South Fork Trail 100 yards to the junction of the Spring Cave Trail. The Cliff Lake Trail junctions the Spring Cave Trail 1/2 mile from the campground.

Elevation: 7,600 feet

Ending Elevation: 9,600 feet

Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet

Distance: 3.5 miles

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Moderate

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