Maud Lake from Twin Lakes Trailhead(edit)

Overview

A moderate one way trail to Maud Lake from Wrights Lake in the Eldorado National Forest. It has less elevation gain than the other trails going from the Twin Lakes trailhead. The first mile is a pleasant walk alongside some wet meadows. It climbs on to a ridge, works its way though some woods and descends into a spectacular open granite bowl that has some great cascades when the snow is melting. The last part is a moderate ascent to Maude Lake.

Getting Started

Park at the Twin Lakes trailhead. Walk down to the trailhead board, write yourself a day-use permit and cross the bridge to get on the trail. For overnight use, you will need to get a permit online at recreation.gov or a ranger station. If the trailhead parking is full, you can park at the Rockbound Trailhead on the west side of Wrights Lake and take the other trail that joins this trail at the top of the first ridge. No campfires in Desolation.

Taking Children

The first few miles would be good for kids. Not much elevation gain and no drop-offs. The final ascent to Maude Lake runs alongside a deep gorge and might not be suitable for kids who run around a lot.