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    Esmeralda Basin Loop

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5.5-8h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    18.7 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    865 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Esmeralda Basin is a gorgeous location, especially when the fall colors arrive. The trail is dotted with wildflowers, berries, and small creeks. The mountains overhead provide views in every direction. This hike is 18.7 km long, fairly difficult, and easy to follow. Expect heavy traffic. There is also the option to hike Esmeralda Basin as an out and back trail.

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    Route Description for Esmeralda Basin Loop

    Esmeralda Basin is punctuated by the Esmeralda Peaks, providing great mountain views. It’s especially pretty when autumn makes everything red and gold. This loop approach offers a longer hike with more diverse scenery than the out and back approach, but it is more difficult. Some prefer the scenery on the out and back trail.

    You can hike this loop either way. You’ll either begin by heading left from the trailhead and hiking below the western flanks of Esmeralda Peaks, following the creek before climbing to Gallagher Head Lake and keeping right to the fork. Going right at the fork, there’s more climbing to get onto the northeastern side of the peaks, eventually dropping south and hiking alongside the creek back to the trailhead. You can also start right and go counter-clockwise, which would require more steep descents than ascents.

    Getting to the Esmeralda Basin Loop Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Esmeralda Basin is north of De Roux Horse Campground off N Fork Teanaway Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      July-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Loop

    Esmeralda Basin Loop Elevation Graph

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    Esmeralda Basin Loop Reviews

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