Skip to main content
ForestMatters, LLC

Slavonia Trail

Routt National Forest, Colorado · 3 min read

Distance
8.5 mi
Elevation Gain
1,800 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Est. Time
5-7 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
8 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
Google MapsApple Maps

Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Access to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness alpine lake chain
  • Subalpine meadows with wildflowers in July and August
  • Multiple lakes accessible on the out-and-back route
  • Moderate-hard grade manageable for fit hikers
  • Less demanding alternative to the full Zirkel loop
lakealpine meadow

The Slavonia Trail in Routt National Forest provides the most direct access into the alpine lake chain of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, climbing 1,800 feet through subalpine forest and meadow terrain north of Clark, Colorado. As a standalone out-and-back, it delivers the best of the Zirkel lake country in a single day without the full 14-mile loop commitment.

The trail is one of the primary entry points into the wilderness and serves both day hikers and backpackers seeking access to the Gold Creek lake chain. The alpine meadows near the lakes are among the best wildflower terrain in the Routt National Forest.

The Route

From the Slavonia Trailhead, the trail climbs Gold Creek upstream through conifer forest. The lower section passes through aspen groves before the terrain shifts to spruce-fir. Above 10,000 feet, the forest opens into subalpine meadows with views developing across the drainage. Gold Lake is reached at approximately four miles.

The turnaround at 4.25 miles provides lake-basin scenery and views toward the higher terrain of the Zirkel Wilderness interior. Return on the same trail.

What to Expect

The trail is popular by Routt National Forest standards, particularly on summer weekends. Arriving before 8 AM is advisable for parking and a quieter early-trail experience. The Slavonia Trailhead is also the starting point for the full loop, so weekends bring a mix of day hikers and backpackers.

Wildflower peak is typically in the last two weeks of July. The basins near Gold Lake support a diverse assemblage of alpine wildflowers that rewards anyone willing to slow down and look.

Nearby

Clark, Colorado, is the primary access point, a few miles south of the trailhead on County Road 129. Steamboat Springs is about 25 miles south on US-40 with full city services, resorts, and the Strawberry Park natural hot springs for a post-hike soak.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate-hard rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Routt National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Slavonia Trailhead off Forest Road 400 near Clark. Gravel lot with room for 20 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Routt National Forest

More Trails in Routt National Forest

moderateout-and-back

Gilpin Lake Trail

5.5 mi1,400 ft gain
July through September

Hike to Gilpin Lake in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This moderate 5.5-mile out-and-back gains 1,400 feet to a quiet alpine lake in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness with summer wildflowers.

3 min read

moderate-hardout-and-back

Gold Creek Lake Trail

7 mi1,600 ft gain
July through September

Hike to Gold Creek Lake in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This moderate-hard 7-mile out-and-back gains 1,600 feet to a pristine alpine lake in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness with wildflowers.

3 min read

strenuousout-and-back

Hahns Peak Trail

5 mi2,200 ft gain
July through September

Summit Hahns Peak in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This strenuous 5-mile out-and-back gains 2,200 feet to the top of an extinct volcano with panoramic views over northwest Colorado and into Wyoming.

3 min read

moderateout-and-back

Hinman Park Trail

4.5 mi600 ft gain
June through October

Hike the Hinman Park Trail in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This moderate 4.5-mile out-and-back follows a meadow-lined drainage through a classic Colorado mountain park with wildflowers and wildlife.

2 min read

strenuousloop

Mount Zirkel Wilderness Loop

14 mi2,600 ft gain
July through September

Complete the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Loop in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This strenuous 14-mile loop gains 2,600 feet through alpine lakes and wildflower basins in one of Colorado's premier wilderness areas.

3 min read

moderateout-and-back

Seedhouse Road Trail

6 mi800 ft gain
May through October

Hike the Seedhouse Road Trail in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This moderate 6-mile out-and-back follows the Elk River through forested terrain with summer wildflowers and excellent elk and deer habitat.

3 min read

strenuousout-and-back

Seven Lakes Trail

9 mi2,200 ft gain
July through September

Hike to Seven Lakes in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This strenuous 9-mile out-and-back gains 2,200 feet to a chain of alpine lakes in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness with meadows and views.

3 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Slavonia Trail relate to the Mount Zirkel Loop?
The Slavonia Trail is the outbound leg of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Loop. As an out-and-back, it provides access to the wilderness lake chain without the full loop commitment.
What lakes are accessible?
The trail passes Gold Lake and several smaller unnamed lakes in the Gold Creek drainage. The chain extends further into the wilderness for those who want to push beyond the standard out-and-back turnaround.
Is a permit required?
No permit is required for day hiking or overnight use in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness as of 2026.
When is the best time to visit?
Late July through August offers the best combination of snow-free trail, peak wildflowers, and comfortable temperatures. July brings some of the most dramatic wildflower displays.