Chain Lakes via Box Spring Trailhead

Complete Photojournal

​Laura, Z and myself had been working so hard and recovering from our first COVID infections that we hadn't had a chance to get out and hike during August and most of September. We decided to change that by heading to Chain Lakes via one of the least-visited trailheads into the Emigrant Wilderness: Box Springs.

After leaving HWY 108 at Long Barn, it takes a little over an hour to travel another 28 miles on paved, then gravel, then rutted and rocky dirt roads to reach the trailhead. Most 4WD SUV's and crossovers should have no problem reaching the trailhead. But it pretty much guarantees you'll be the only one on the trail there! It'll even get you away from the hunters!

​The 2.8 mile trail to the group of three chain lakes gently wanders through the remnants of a 2003 fire that we last visited in November of 2006. Many of the snags we saw in 2006 have since toppled and willows and small fir trees are regenerating near the meadows. Trail fining was a bit sus at times since this are is not highly trafficked and the many downed trees have fallen since the last trail crew came through to cut a path. The lakes are small and lovely, but fishless. Thunderstorms chased us out a bit earlier than we anticipated and didn't get to explore the lens of Disaster Peak Formation nor hike to surrounding domes for a great view. But a little hail and thunder made for some great excitement!

2025 version of lily pad pond. So many trees down from the fire.

2006 version of pond with lily pads.

Chain Lake No. 2 is considerably more grassy than in November 2006.

Chain Lake No. 2 in 2006.