Top 5 Lakes in Morning Star Natural Resources Conservation Area

The lakes in Morning Star Natural Resources Conservation Area are notable for their pristine backcountry and alpine environments. Many are subalpine and alpine lakes, surrounded by natural forests and meadows. The area also protects unique ecological features, including wetlands and habitats for rare plant species and wildlife.

Yes, several lakes offer designated backcountry campsites. You can find camping spots at Beaver Plant Lake, Upper Ashland Lake, Lower Ashland Lake, Little Greider Lake (which has good camping spots and dramatic views), Big Greider Lake, and Boulder Lake.

The area features extensive trail systems leading to the lakes, ranging from moderate to challenging. For example, the Ashland Lakes Trail is a 3.7-mile route to the Ashland Lakes, while the Greider Lakes Trail is an 8.5-mile roundtrip with significant elevation gain. You can find more details on various hiking options in the Hiking in Morning Star Natural Resources Conservation Area guide.

Yes, there are family-friendly viewpoints that offer scenic views without requiring strenuous hikes. For instance, the Bear Creek Site on Spada Lake provides overlooks with benches and views of the forest and Lake Spada.

While many lakes are pristine, swimming or wading is generally not permitted in Spada Lake, as it is a drinking water reservoir. This applies to areas like the View of Spada Lake and the Bear Creek Site.

The Morning Star NRCA provides important habitat for various wildlife. Black bear sightings are common, especially around the Greider Lakes area. The wetlands and subalpine areas also support diverse species, making it a good spot for wildlife viewing.

The Ashland Lakes (Lower, Upper, and Beaver Plant Lake) are popular alpine destinations accessible via a 3.7-mile trail. Beaver Plant Lake is known for its backcountry campsites, while Upper and Lower Ashland Lakes offer pristine views. This area is also historically significant for its unique forest ecosystem, having avoided major fires for centuries.

The hike to Greider Lakes can be challenging, featuring an 8.5-mile roundtrip route with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The trail includes steep sections and switchbacks, but rewards hikers with well-maintained campsites and opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly around Little Greider Lake and Big Greider Lake.

Foggy Lake is a 19-acre glacial lake situated in the stunning Gothic Basin, beneath Gothic Peak and Del Campo Peak. The trail to Gothic Basin is challenging, involving a steep ascent and potential scrambling, but offers breathtaking alpine views. Campfires are prohibited in the basin to protect its fragile habitat.

Yes, the Morning Star NRCA is known for its ecological significance, protecting outstanding examples of native plant communities. Boulder Lake, for instance, includes sensitive wetlands and may contain a rare sphagnum, along with the rare Choris's Bog Orchid. The area around Big Greider Lake also features sensitive wetlands with rare plants.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activity. For hiking and camping, late spring through early fall generally offers the most accessible conditions. In autumn, the ground-hugging berry bushes around areas like Greider Lakes provide vibrant fall colors, making it a scenic time for a visit.

The Cutthroat Lakes are accessible via the Walt Bailey Trail and are known for providing access to pristine backcountry wilderness. While no rare plants are currently known there, it was historically a site for such occurrences. The lakes also serve as a good water source for filtering during hikes.