Bobcats trip – IPW - Hessie TH to Lost Lake

Trip

Bobcats trip – IPW - Hessie TH to Lost Lake

Abandoned Sites Hike: This hike will explore the area around Lost Lake in Roosevelt National Forest, following the Devils Thumb Trail before venturing off-trail near the lake. Our quest will be to locate historic mining remnants and other abandoned sites, using route-finding and navigation skills to investigate the area before visiting an abandoned cabin on our return to the trailhead.

  • Mon, Aug 31, 2026
  • Bobcats Section
  • Hiking
  • Adults
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 6.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 9,800 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH

EXPLORATORY HIKE: Beginning at the Hessie Trailhead, we will follow the Devils Thumb Trail to its junction with the Lost Lake Trail before continuing toward Lost Lake, where our true exploration begins. The objective of this outing is to investigate the area surrounding Lost Lake in hopes of locating abandoned mining features and remnants of historic mining operations that once occupied this remote corner of the Roosevelt National Forest. Expect periods of off-trail travel requiring route-finding, navigation, and careful observation as we search for evidence of the area's mining past, including possible mine workings, foundations, and other historic artifacts hidden within the forest. On our return to the trailhead, we will make a stop at an abandoned cabin, adding another glimpse into the human history of this rugged mountain landscape. This exploratory hike is intended for those who enjoy combining backcountry travel, historical investigation, and a spirit of discovery. We have a lunch/snack at Lost Lake. Our pace will be consistent with completing this hike in a reasonable amount of time. At least ~5 miles and ~1200 ft elevation gain.

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at US 36 & McCaslin Blvd PnR-South 7:30AM for a 7:45AM departure (US 36 and McCaslin Blvd Park and Ride - South - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the Hessie Trailhead parking (Hessie Trailhead - Google Maps)

Roster
Route/Place

IPW - Hessie Trailhead


Required Equipment

Required Equipment

This is a CMC Bobcats Trip.  The Bobcats’ mission is to ensure a variety of adventurous CMC trips, mostly on weekdays, all year long.  Our trips tend to be faster paced, on more challenging routes, and with fewer stops.  We foster a strong community of hikers seeking challenges, discovery, and camaraderie.   We don’t have dues and we invite ALL CMC members to sign up for any Bobcat trip that is within their ability level.

Be sure to bring the 10 essentials. Trekking poles are recommended.

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