Trail Overview
The Elk Lake - FS 4697 trail is a beautifully scenic, 6.9-mile unmaintained forest service road that climbs steadily through a dense, vibrant woodland canopy. The journey serves as the primary access route to the popular parking area for the Gold Butte Lookout before ultimately winding its way down to the tranquil shores of Elk Lake. For the first couple of miles, off-roaders are treated to a remarkably smooth and relaxing gravel transit, bathed in dappled sunlight with only the occasional, shallow puddle. However, once drivers climb above the main switchbacks, the trail's personality shifts dramatically; the forgiving gravel transitions into a heavily degraded track filled with rough, chunky rock and noticeable dirt ruts. Because of this jarring terrain, the route is best enjoyed during the drier summer and fall seasons. Airing down aggressive all-terrain (AT) tires to lower air pressures is highly recommended to absorb the impacts and ensure a comfortable ride up to the lookout and the lake.
Difficulty
Elk Lake confidently earns a Level 2 technical rating primarily due to the prolonged, unmaintained sections of rough, chunky rock found in its higher elevations. While the initial miles are a highly approachable, smooth gravel cruise, the terrain past the switchbacks features jarring, uneven rock beds and noticeable ruts that will vigorously test a vehicle's suspension. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended for this transit. Dropping tire pressures on all-terrain tires is heavily advised to maintain traction, prevent tire damage, and eliminate severe ride harshness over the chunky rock surfaces.
