Grover Hot Springs to Hawkins Peak Trail

Uphill climb through trees, scree, & granite, to 10,024-foot Hawkins Peak. The trail is flat between the Grover Hot Springs trailhead and the Burnside Lake trailhead. Don't let this fool you! Make sure you bring plenty of water, as you'll need it. Both the Burnside Trail and the Hawkins Peak jeep trail are uphill the whole way. Don't let this dissuade you, however, because the views are gorgeous. As you climb, you'll see views of the valley below and the many over 10k peaks on the way. Bring something to swim in, because you'll want to take a dip in Burnside Lake. Unfortunately the lake is accessible by a dirt road, so you might run across a few car campers. That's ok though, because you can visit with them while you rest up for the final summit of Hawkins Peak, which is 10,024 feet up. Be prepared for a Class II ascent; you'll need your hands here in addition to your feet. At the top, you'll be able to soak in the breeze and take in the panoramic views. Make sure to have your picture taken with L.L. Hawkins' inscription from 1869!