Bear canisters are required for food storage because of the lack of good trees for proper hanging.
Description
Ecosystem Type: Montane forest, subalpine forest
Trail Tread Types: Maintained
General Elevation Trend: Steep
Unique Features: Subalpine lake basin
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.3 miles
Elevation Change: 2,850 feet to 6,000 feet
Best Season: Late June through early October
Stock: Open to stock but recommended for experienced stock animals and riders due to steep, rocky terrain. Camping with stock is prohibited.
Camping
Food Storage Method: No bear wires. Bear canisters recommended as it is difficult to hang food 12 feet up and 10 feet out from the nearest trunk.
Location and sites: Campsites are located at Heather Park. Please camp only in established sites or on a durable surface
Toilet Facilities: None. Bury human waste 6-8" deep and 200 feet from water sources and campsites.
Water Source: Stream near Heather Park camp.
Stock: Allowed, day-use only.
Special Concerns
Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace during your stay to protect the resource and vegetation. Camp in designated sites or on durable surfaces (bare ground).
Campfires: No campfires at Heather Park. To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are prohibited above 3,500 feet.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage, and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day.
Safety
In early season, several steep snow slopes exist above Heather Park.
An ice axe and self-arrest skills may be required for much of the spring and early summer.
It may be difficult to follow sections of trail due to snow.
Map and compass skills may be required during much of the spring and early summer.
