Beginning at Nast (Horseshoe Bend), the trail is a fairly easy climb and parallels the Fryingpan River for nine miles until it reaches the lakes. The trail may be shortened by taking road #505 and hiking the remaining four miles. This trail passes in and out of conifer forests and high meadows. There is a stream crossing about 2 1/2 miles before the lakes, so bring extra socks.

Directions: From Carbondale, From Carbondale travel east on Hwy. 82 to Basalt. Turn left at the stoplight and travel 32 miles up the Fryingpan River. When the pavement ends, take a right onto road #505, past Horseshoe Bend Guest Ranch, and follow road #505 until it dead-ends. The trailhead is above the water diversion structure. Another route to the lakes (the longer one) is to take the Horseshoe Bend Guest Ranch road. Public parking is provided at the bulletin board just across the bridge. Hike up the road to the beginning of the trail.

Elevation: 8,700 feet

Ending Elevation: 11,020 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,020 feet

Distance: 4.0 miles

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

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