Babyfoot Lake Loop via Kalmiopsis Rim Trail #1124(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate loop trail to Babyfoot Lake in Kalmiopsis Wilderness.

This trail goes by Babyfoot Lake Trailhead.

This trail works its way through the burn scars of the 2017 Chetco Bar fire and the 2002 Bisquit and Florence fires. Bringing a hat and sunscreen in summer is advised. The lake itself is quite clear and the views of it and the surrounding ridges of the Kalmoipsis wilderness from the rim trail south of the lake are stunning. This area stays snow free for a larger part of the winter months, depending on the year, due to its lower elevation and proximity to the coastal climate. At roughly 6.0 miles round trip, the loop is a great day trip with an enjoyable stop at the lake. The trail can be brushy at times, and often there is blowdown due to the dead trees (snags) in the area. There are a few small creek and spring crossings on the western side of the loop.

Getting Started

The trailhead has parking for about 5 to 10 cars and has one pit toilet. There is little to no shade near the trailhead due to a lack of trees from past wildfires. The sunsets and sunrises at this trailhead can be quite beautiful, looking west out of the rest of the Kalmoipsis Wilderness and east across to the Trinity Alps of California.