Frances
Lake
TIPS
FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS
- This is a fairly difficult hike, and
should not be attempted unless you are in good physical condition.
- Be sure to check with a nearby Forest
Service location for the latest information on the use of campfires,
availability of water, and any other specific trail information.
- It will be necessary to purchase an
Oregon fishing license (Chevron Station in Elgin) and a recreation parking
pass (can be purchased at the trailhead in a dropbox).
- Do not underestimate the need for
water. The altitude gain and scarcity of water requires extra
planning. The purported sole water source at the 4.5 mile mark looks
like it is active only in the early summer months. We would recommend
carrying a minimum of a 70 oz CamelBak or similar hydration system, with an
extra 32 oz. water bottle. Consider using Gatorade or other sports
drink, and overhydrate at the trailhead.
- Consider using trekking poles if you
don't already use them. Warning: You may not hike again without
them!
- Allow plenty of time for the hike.
Starting as early as possible is strongly recommended, particularly on hot
days. Take your time, especially when traversing the final 4
switchbacks to the top of the ridge. Monitor your breathing and heart
rate, and rest frequently if you feel especially fatigued.
- We found the first mile of the hike to
be one of the steepest and most difficult segments of the trip. Don't
be discouraged by the first ridge; it is rather steep, and you will
immediately find yourself huffing and puffing and wondering if you're ever
going to make it to the top!
- Carry a detailed topographical map of
the area. I found a suitable copy just by printing one out off
TopoMaps.Com. It helps during the trip to know what to expect farther
up the trail. Since there are 30 switchbacks to the top of the ridge,
it is nice to know how much progress you have made during the trip.
- Go as light as possible. You will
be traversing a ridge with a 3,300 foot gain, from 5300 to 8600 feet
elevation. Any additional weight will only make the trip more
difficult.
- Watch your footing. There are
several places where horses have left large imprints right on the edge of
the trail. These imprints can easily trip you or turn your
ankle. Be sure to use footwear suitable for difficult terrain.
- Watch the weather, particularly
approaching thunderstorms. If an impending thunderstorm with lightning
appears likely, stay well below the top of the ridge in reasonable tree
cover until it passes.
- The best campsites are located on the
east side of the lake, about halfway down. The established trail meets
the lake at the NW corner. There is a faint path to the east through a
flat area right near the lake. This will take you to an established
trail which winds through the glacial debris zone on the north side of the
lake. Right before reaching the outlet, veer towards the lake, where
you should find a handy logjam with which to ford the outlet. Follow
this trail around the lake, where you will find a number of decent campsites
in the woods.
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Lake 2007 main page