Part of the Vallecito, Colorado area.

Cave Basin Trail: Most Difficult; map skills suggested. Drive up Middle Mountain Road (USFS Road # 724 gravel) to the turn off at the ten mile marker. Cave Basin Trail begins at an elevation of 10,800 ft. If you go all the way you’ll end at an elevation of 12,360 ft. (the Overlook of Emerald Lake). Ten miles round trip, but any portion of is great way to experience some high elevation hiking. The trail starts off wide and well defined but disappears after about three miles due to the gray limestone that forms benches. Use your map and compass skills to progress across the gray limestone benches, past meadows and sinkholes. The alpine meadows are full of blooming wildflowers in late July and August. This area offers excellent views and photographic possibilities. As with all high-altitude areas, storms can move in rapidly bringing severe wind, lightning, rain, snow, or hail any time of the year. Plan accordingly.