Approach

Start from the Cabresto Lake Trailhead. See the Main Page for instructions on how to get to Cabresto Lake.

Route Description

From the trailhead (Trail No. 82, Lake Fork Trail. ), hike approximately two and one-half miles towards Hart Lake, then turn left on the Bull Creek Trail (Trail #85). Hike 4 miles up a sometimes steep but suprisingly nice trail. Cairns will lead you through one meadow where the trail disappears. As you are approaching the ridge above the last meadow, the trail will split. Take the right fork and proceed up switchbacks to the ridge. Take a right turn on the Hart Lake trail. After hiking about one-half mile you will turn left leaving the trail and climb straight up the grassy slopes of Venado. The total elevation gain from Cabresto Lake to the summit of Venado is 3,600 ft.

Essential Gear

This trail would be very difficult to attempt in the winter. Snow depths will be significant higher up until late May.