Mileage: 3.0 miles one way
Elevation: 6640-7200 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Use Level: Light
Season: June-September
Topographic Map: Soda Springs
Access: Take the Soda Springs exit off Interstate 80. On the north side of the freeway follow the paved road east past the fire station for three tenths mile to the parking area.

Trail Description: Since much of the trail is over private property, hikers are requested to stay on the trail and observe the property rights of the landowner. From the trailhead follow the trail north for 1/4 mile to a road. The road will take you to the Lower Castle Creek crossing (Lower Castle Creek causes some wet feet in early season). The trail veers to the right 1/4 mile after the creek crossing, and then climbs for another 1/4 mile, where it ties in with the road again. For the next mile, under a canopy of beautiful forest, the road gently ascends. At the end of the road, which is also the beginning of the Motor Vehicle Restricted Area, the trail leads to an open, flat meadow. From there it is 1/4 mile to Lower Lola Montez Lake. There are campsites around the lake and fishing is relatively good.