Sauerkraut Wall Trail

One of the newest hiking trails in the Lincoln Ranger District, the Sauerkraut Wall Trail consists of a winding trail down the side of a narrow valley to Sauerkraut Creek. The trail cuts downwards through Aspens, Ponderosa and Lodgepole Pines, and Douglas Fir trees, with several open meadow-like areas. From early spring through summer, wildflowers can be found blooming both along the path and in these meadows. The most common flowers to see are Indian Paintbrush, Bear Grass, and Lupine varieties. Birdwatching is also plentiful for visitors to the area. The trail ends at Sauerkraut Creek, where a small footbridge leads across the stream to a campsite on the other side. To see the namesake wall, hikers can cross the bridge and cut through the campsite to an old logging road on the opposite side. Turn left and follow the road south past an abandoned cabin about a half a mile, and the wall can be seen bordering the stream, a remnant of past mining activity. All in all, the Sauerkraut Wall Trail is a good day hike for anyone looking for a quick and easy adventure, and features scenic views, plentiful flora and fauna, and a firsthand view of some local history.