This trail begins at the Lizard Head Trailhead at Lizard Head Pass on Highway 145. It leads north into the Lizard Head Wilderness providing expansive views of the San Juan Mountain Range.

The first mile is fairly level and has some overlook areas where the hiker can see Trout Lake and the valley east. After a pretty steep climb with switchbacks the trail emerges on a ridge and follows this ridge above timberline to the end of the San Juan Forest boundary.

The trail leaves Highway 145 at Lizard Head Pass and contours the east side of Black Face Mountain and overlooks the Lake Fork Valley including Trout Lake. It then switchbacks through a low saddle north of Black Face and climbs to the ridge leading to the summit of Black Face which is 12,147 feet. From this vantage point you can see great distances into the San Juan Mountain Range to the south. The scenery is very outstanding and unique. You can look down on many smaller peaks. Elk graze the Wilson Meadows and pikas and marmots live in the slide rock areas. There are a few ptarmigan in the brushy areas. Snow sometimes remains in the area through July.

Directions: From Lizard Head Pass, From Lizard Head Pass on Hwy 145 turn west at south side of sign and follow old abandoned highway to parking and trailhead.

Elevation: 10,280 feet

Ending Elevation: 12,080 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet

Distance: 6.0 miles

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous

Visitor Information

Contact Wildernet