Trail Overview
Nestled in a high-elevation subalpine pine forest within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Lost Lakes Road - FS 31070 offers a scenic drive past crystal-clear alpine waters near the headwaters of the West Fork Carson River. Accessed via an obvious turnoff directly from Forestdale Road, this route is popular with forest visitors seeking primitive lakeside dispersed camping, tranquil mountain fishing, and foot trails exploring the alpine basin. The track slopes downhill past several secluded campsites before encircling West Lake and continuing toward East Lake. Along the rise between the two lakes, the pathway encounters a wide seasonal wash crossing that intersects the road before reaching the final lakeshore turnaround. While the road officially terminates at a shaded campsite clearing, a short extension over the dam provides access to additional primitive camping spots along the water.
Difficulty
Consisting of a single-track hard-packed dirt road with embedded granite rocks and exposed roots, this technical route earns a Grade 4 difficulty rating. The defining obstacle is a prominent rock ledge and sharp drop along the backside of the lower lake, requiring high ground clearance to clear without making undercarriage contact. Drivers must carefully evaluate their tire placement over exposed rock ledges, maintain smooth momentum through the wide seasonal wash crossing, and negotiate tight squeezes between trees along the lakeshore.
