Access #1: From Antonito, go west 23 miles on Highway 17 to the Conejos River Road #250. Travel north on Road #250 for 17 miles to Saddle Creek Road #105. Turn west and proceed approximately 1/2 mile to the Lake Fork Ranch Road. The trail begins 5 miles past gate to the ranch.

Access #2: Proceed to Road #250 as above. Follow road #250 23 miles to Platoro. Trail takes off from Conejos Avenue in Platoro.

Attractions & Considerations: Dividing the Lake Fork Trail makes a pleasant day hike from either Lake Fork Campground to Big Lake and return, or from Platoro to Big Lake and return. Fishing on the section of Lake Fork Creek from Rock Lake to Big Lake is with fly only and catch and release, due to the stocking of cutthroat in this section of the creek and the lake. At Big Lake, the visitor may make a side journey on the Tobacco Lake Trail #715.

Narrative: The Lake Fork Trail begins at the entrance to Lake Fork Ranch. It is a gentle hike along the Lake Fork Creek to Big Lake. The trail then climbs steeply to a saddle between Forest King Mountain and Mammoth Mountain and drops steeply into the community of Platoro. The community of Platoro has lodging, groceries, gas, and laundry facilities. The area is heavily used during the summer and advance reservations are usually necessary for lodging. Mining activity is scheduled to begin above Big Lake. The visitor should use caution when in this area.

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