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10 Cliff Lake

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Trip Data: 11S 318673 4112363; 10 miles; 2/1 days

Topos: Courtright Reservoir, Dogtooth Peak, Ward Mtn.

Highlights: Splendid alpine scenery keeps hikers company as they enjoy this easy trip to a lake nestled under sheer granite cliffs and ledges. An optional climb of Dogtooth Peak adds to the scenery and adventure.

DAY 1 (Cliff Lake Trailhead to Cliff Lake, 5 miles): Leaving the trailhead, the path descends gradually northwest toward Courtright Reservoir, travels a half mile under the scattered shade of red fir and lodgepole pine, and passes a spur trail on the right (east). Continue ahead (generally northwest) and traverse two marshy and mosquito-rich areas along a wooden boardwalk.

THE ORIGIN OF “DINKEY”

One might assume that the name “Dinkey” refers to the dozens of small, unnamed, and unrecognized lakes within the wilderness area. But locals will tell you the 1863 legend of a tiny dog named Dinkey. On an outing with its owner, an aggressive grizzly bear charged. Dinkey, reportedly “no bigger than a rabbit,” attacked, biting the hind leg of the massive grizzly. The bear swiped, and, in a flash, Dinkey was lifeless. Yet Dinkey’s bravery was not in vain. Dinkey saved its owner, distracting the grizzly and allowing its owner enough time to grab his gun and kill the bear. Local legend and Dinkey Lakes Wilderness honor small but mighty Dinkey to this day.