Due to heavy use, the Blue Lakes trail is maintained by the Forest Service very well in the Brainard Lake region. These two double-logged crossings are an important landmark in the execution of the Audubon-Paiute Traverse via the Southeast Ridge. After completing this crossing, go right (north) on a spur trail that descends to Mitchell Lake. Negotiate some soggy areas to ascend a boulder ridden slope (Class 2) and gain the east end of the Southeast Ridge of Mount Audubon. Refer to the Audubon-Paiute Traverse and the Southeast Ridge route descriptions on the Mount Audubon page. IU Trekkers outing, Summer, 2004.

Digital photo by Aaron Johnson