Carson Lake
We were really looking forward to Carson Lake, a short trail that took us right over the side of the mesa down what looked like a very steep hill. In the end, it turned out to be not very steep or dramatic, but it was still worth the trip for some amazing scenery and raspberries.
We were on Crater View and we turned off to Carson Lake. The trail on that side wasn't maintained, but it wasn't difficult. We stopped at the reservoir to check out the scenery, parking next to a few trucks with empty horse trailers attached. We never saw any horses, but it would be an amazing place to ride.
It was chilly and windy, so we pressed on, crossing over Land's End Road. The descent was pretty in aspen trees, and we passed a truck on its way out. Though the trail is narrow in spots, there are wide areas for passing so it all worked out.
We found Carson Lake Recreation Area at the bottom, with a few secluded and nice camping spots. It was a little rough around the edges, but it would be a nice spot to be close to the road but still in the woods. It was also within walking distance of Carson Lake and pit toilets.
We parked next to raspberries everywhere, and we all snacked for a while even though the berries were small. They tasted amazing, and we found them in the parking area as well as next to the lake. We walked down to the lake on a nice path that included a foot bridge, and found a few people fishing. The lake was very scenic and it looked deep. We stayed for a little while just enjoying everything and taking our time. Then we headed back up to finish Crater View.
