Difficulty | 2 Beginner-intermediate |
Length | 0.8 mile round trip |
Starting Elevation |
7250 feet |
Cumulative Elevation Change |
+350, -350 feet |
Navigation | Map |
Time | Few hours |
Season | December through April |
Snowmobiles Use | Low |
USGS Topo | 7.5' series, Echo Lake, Freel Peak |
Start | Highway 89, 5.0 miles south of Meyers. There is a turnout on the north side of the road. |
Although the route itself to Big Meadow is not particularly interesting, the meadow and the surrounding area are a pleasant destination and interesting to explore. Big Meadow is also a landmark on tours to Scotts Lake, Hope Valley, Round Lake and Dardanelles Lake.
Be aware that the route is relatively steep, but short, and you will likely find it heavily worn. In fact, if it were not for the shortness of the tour it would be rated intermediate. It's not uncommon for people to walk the first part, which is the steepest.
Mileage Log
Numbers in parentheses
correspond to mileage points on map
Waypoint 1 to 2
Miles: 0.0 - 0.4
Elevation change: +300, -50 feet
Begin by locating the trailhead on the south side of the highway and 50 yards east (uphill) from where Big Meadow Creek crosses the highway. From the trailhead (1) ski south along the east (left) side of Big Meadow Creek for 0.4 mile until you reach Big Meadow (2). Stay far enough to the left of the creek to avoid the brush.
Return to trailhead
Miles: 0.4 - 0.8
Elevation change: +50, -300 feet
Retrace the route for 0.4 mile back to the trailhead (1).