Crystal Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail

Hike up a very steep incline from Sawtooth Pass through a meadow with gorgeous views of the mountains. Initial one mile is steep, with large stone steps to climb. Then cross Monarch Creek, entering a conifer forest punctuated by occasional meadows with views of Empire Mountain. Continue noticeable ascent, but less steep than before, along the well-maintained and fairly trafficked Monarch Lakes trail. One mile before Monarch Lakes, take the Crystal Lake right fork onto an ascending unmaintained use trail, with a lot of loose stone. The trail passes through diminishing forest, past Chihuahua Mine, over a pass above 10,000 feet. It descends somewhat to cross a difficult area of loose rock, and then re-ascends up the loose rock, on a sometimes difficult to discern trail. The trail is apparent, though, and ascends steadily to Lower Crystal Lake, with a concrete dam. Upper Crystal Lake can be accessed by a northwest- headed spur just before the Lower Crystal Lake dam. Trekking poles recommended for difficult footings in many places.