South Mineral Campground via County Road 12 and County Road 7
15.9 mi
Distance
8 hrs 8 min
Time
terrain
2,500 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a difficult one way trail in San Juan National Forest.
This trail goes by Kendall Campground, Sultan Designated Camping Area, Primitive Camping, Ice Lakes Trailhead guidepost, and South Mineral Campground.
This is an alternate route for South Mineral Creek Campground via County Road 12 and County Road 7.
Sights to See
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Public Tracks
Clear Lake, Bandora Mine
Overview:
Beautiful valley close to Silverton offers great hiking, biking and fishing. Spectacular climb to high mountain lake with beautiful seasonal wildflowers. Several large campgrounds along South Mineral Creek suitable for motorhomes and large campers. This area is very popular for fishing and camping. Minimal structures remain at Bandora Mine, but the drive is fun.
Rating: Easy
Mostly wide graded road. Climb to Clear Lake is the hardest part with steep, rutted and narrow switchbacks. Suitable for any high-clearance stock SUVs with low range and a confident driver.
Stats:
Length: 11.4 miles
Time: 3 hours
High Point: 11,950 feet
Best Time to Go: June-Sept
Current Conditions:
San Juan Mountains Center in Silverton
(970) 387-5530
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
Clear Lake 2.0
Clear Lake is a beautiful alpine lake at 12,000'. Close to Silverton.
