Hunts Lake is located in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness area, east of Salida. The main access for this trail is via Bear Creek and the Rainbow Trail. The hike in to the lake is approximately 9.5 miles. The trail is in good shape along the Rainbow Trail and for the first two miles of Hunts Lake Trail. The final part is steep and rocky and not recommended for horses. The trail junction is not well defined from the Rainbow Trail.
The trail is closed by heavy snow from November through June.
The hike to Hunts Lake is strenous but well worth it. The lake sees few visitors during the summer months. Fishing for native cutthroats can be a challenge but avid anglers will enjoy this lake. The lake sits in a rocky basin and is above timberline.
From Salida, travel east on Highway 50,for 2.75 miles to County Road 101. Turn right onto this road and continues south for 5.5 miles to the trailhead for the Rainbow Trail. This dirt road becomes somewhat rugged after the first 2 miles, but is passable in a high-clearance 2-wheel drive vehicle.