Hike to 4th of July Lake

This is an easy, yet breathtakingly beautiful hike. After the fun adventure of the 10.2 mile extra bumpy dirt road to the trail head the hike in is simple. 4 Wheel drive and a spare tire are advised, I got a flat. The drive in through old burned forest area is a cool drive on its own. At the end of the road there will be a parking lot and toilets. From here just follow the signs to the lake. The hike is very scenic with spectacular views of 4th of July Creek, spring run off falls, mountain vistas and the stunning lake at the end. The distance to the lake is 1.8 miles. Once you make it to 4th of July lake you have a few options; stay and chill, continue on another mile to the bigger Washington Lake or head back 0.3 miles where there was a fork. Take a right instead of the trail back to your car. About a mile up a steep slope to the ridge top will be an amazing view of the White Cloud mountains, Sawtooth mountains and the Born Lakes. Enjoy.