The best walks and hikes in Lizard Head Wilderness

The ideal time to explore the Lizard Head Wilderness is during the summer and early fall, typically from July through September. During these months, the trails are generally free of snow, and the alpine meadows are often covered in wildflowers. Heavy snowfall makes large portions of the wilderness inaccessible from late October through April.

Yes, while the region is known for its challenging peaks, there are easier options. The Woods Lake loop is a great choice. It's a relatively short and flat 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail that offers splendid views of the surrounding mountains without a strenuous climb.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted in the Lizard Head Wilderness, but they must be under voice control or on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and other hikers. It's important to be prepared for the rugged terrain and high altitude, ensuring your dog is fit enough for the hike and has plenty of water.

Backpacking is a popular way to experience the wilderness, with areas like Navajo Lake being common basecamps. Standard wilderness regulations apply, including following Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all your trash, camping at least 100 feet from lakes and streams, and properly storing food. No permits are currently required for overnight stays, but it's always best to check with the local Forest Service office for the most up-to-date information before you go.

The hike to Wilson Peak is very challenging and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers. The Rock of Ages Trail provides the most common approach. It's a difficult 9.3-mile (15 km) round trip with over 3,300 feet (1,000 m) of elevation gain and involves Class 3 scrambling with significant exposure.

For a rewarding loop, consider the Cross Mountain Trail to Black Face Mountain loop. This strenuous 11.8-mile (19 km) circuit offers a comprehensive tour of the area, providing panoramic views and a traverse of Blackface Mountain.

The terrain is rugged and varied. Hikes typically start in spruce-fir and aspen forests at lower elevations and ascend steeply into vast, open alpine basins and meadows above the treeline. Trails are often rocky and can be strenuous due to the high altitude, which generally ranges from 9,000 to over 14,000 feet.

There are around 14 designated hiking routes available on komoot for the Lizard Head Wilderness. These range from short, easy loops to difficult, high-altitude peak ascents, offering options for various skill levels.

The Lizard Head Wilderness is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic scenery, the sense of solitude, and the rewarding challenge of the high-altitude trails.

While the area is more known for its alpine lakes and towering peaks, the wilderness is laced with mountain streams that create cascades, especially during the spring snowmelt. The trail to Navajo Lake, such as the Navajo Lake loop from Tom Akin Reservoir, follows Navajo River and offers opportunities to see water features along the way.

The Cross Mountain Trail offers the most direct route to the base of the magnificent Lizard Head spire. This difficult 8.7-mile (14 km) out-and-back hike involves a steady climb, rewarding you with impressive, close-up views of the iconic geological formation.