From the trailhead, the trail contours to a stream crossing below Poverty Gulch, Golden Horn Peak, and Pilot Knob Peak. Then it traverses through conifer forest and slide paths to the base of a gentle switchback climb from 11,000 feet up past timberline to Lake Hope at 11,900 feet. During the climb, views of Trout Lake and Vermilion Peak appear. Limited camping is available at Lake Hope. The trail continues up the slopes to the east of the lake, climbing through spectacular wildflowers in summer to a saddle and the forest boundary. From the saddle a trail continues down South Mineral Creek drainage in the San Juan National Forest. Good views of San Miguel Peak across Hope Lake to the southwest are visible. This area is used in winter for helicopter skiing, providing excellent runs down to the base of the climb up to the lake.

Access: Take Trestle Road (#625) from Highway 145 at Trout Lake. Follow #626 for one mile to junction with Hidden Lakes Road (#627). Turn left and follow #627 for two-and-a-half miles to parking area and trailhead sign.