The Seventh Lake Trail traverses the northern portion of Seventh Lake, and goes past a couple of lean-tos and designated primitive tent sites. Access is best via the Eighth Lake Campground. 

Key takeaways

• Distance: 5.2 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 400 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions and bridges

Hiking the Seventh Lake Trail

Of note,some choose to start their hike from the western portion of the Seventh Lake Trail, but private property and limited parking make the following way the best way to experience this trail.

This hike starts from Eighth Lake Campground, and heads towards Eagles Nest and Bug Lakes. Follow the trail from the parking area, and cross a foot bridge about a quarter mile in. Continue, a bit steeply, to a junction at a little over 0.75 miles in, and turn left. You'll descend towards the lake, and come to a spot called Arnold's Rock at 1.6 miles in. There is a nice spot to camp by Arnold's Rock near the shore of Seventh Lake. Continuing past this point, you will reach a couple more designated primitive tent sites and a couple lean-tos, the last lean-to being at 2.4 miles or so into the hike. You can continue past this lean-to until the end of the trail and turn around, which would make the out-and-back hike total 5.2 miles.

Seventh Lake Trail in the winter

Winter access is a bit difficult with the campground being closed. Navigating through the campground in the winter, and getting onto this trail would be tough. If you decide to do this, please be prepared for all winter conditions, and be particularly cautious around and on frozen bodies of water.

Experience more trails in Hamilton County

Looking to find some more trails to hike in Hamilton County? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help find the perfect hike for you in the big outdoors.

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