Palisades Lake Trail
(Level 1.9)

Palisades Lake is a great and easy trail.  I decided to give this trail a 2s but just barely.  The trail follows Palisade creek into the mountains.  Following the creek keeps the elevation climb relatively low compared to other hikes in the area.  I did the trail with 4 people who were in mild hiking shape with a 1 year old baby.  However, the trail is a little on the long side once you hike in and out if you’re going to the first lake.  The second lake is almost double the total length of the trip to the first lake.  If you decide to tackle this in a single day, be prepared to leave around 9 and get home around dinner time with a good apatite. 

There are bear signs posted for the area so it’s a good idea to bring bear mace with you.  You should also be aware of the standard bear safety procedures for camping and hiking in bear country.  I will point out that wildlife encounters in the area will be low during the spring and summer because of the heavy use the trail receives from hikers and campers. 

It’s important to be prepared anytime you go into the wilderness.  I always suggest bringing the 10 essentials anytime you are going out, even if it’s only for a few hours; you never know when you will need some of the items.  I had the chance to use our first aid kit on a girl who got blisters.  I would also suggest bringing plenty of water and a lunch, the area can get hot during the day and it’s a long enough day hike that you will most likely eat while you’re on the trail.  I usually bring 2 full water bottles with me when I go on a hike over 3 miles; unless I know that there is water in the area, then I bring a water purifier and a full water bottle.

 

You should also plan what you will be doing while you’re up there and pack accordingly.  There is camping in the area, however, there is a lot of traffic, and the camp sites are trashed. I personally would recommend other campsites over this one unless you are going into the back country past the second lake (7 miles),but it is an option.  There is rock climbing, from what I saw it’s a popular area for rock climbing. There is also fishing, and for birdwatchers, lots of humming birds.

There are a few points of interest along the way.  Shortly after you start hiking (less than 1 mile in), there is a small water fall about the height of a person. At about 2/3 of the hike into the lake you will come across a beautiful river overlook.  It’s a cliff that drops down into the river.  All along the way you will see wildflowers and other things that will be sure to keep your interest.