I underestimated this one! I was planning to go to Bandera as well but decided to keep my trip to the lake because I was gassed (my own fault, went out the gate too hot trying to trail run). Great conditions, one small snow bridge you need to cross to get to the lake but melting rapidly and easy to cross. 40 cars at 1pm on a Tuesday. I found this trailhead really well maintained--good map and several opportunities for trail users to leave input (QR code for a survey and number to text to provide data on # of cars in lot).
I was confused that my Gaia map showed a second trail leading to the lake that was not on any other map I saw. Attaching a screenshot (the orange is my route, out and back). I'm assuming it's an old trail but would appreciate if anyone could comment and let me know if it's still usable.
Comments
Xenolope on Ira Spring Trail - Mason Lake
I think that is the winter route. I have taken it in winter and when it was snow free but both times were before the pandemic. Nice but steep way up when snow free. Little more avalanche exposire in one section than seemed advisable when there is snow. That said, everyone in my party made it just fine.
Posted by:
I ❤️ Trees on Jun 07, 2023 03:00 PM
string cheeze on Ira Spring Trail - Mason Lake
Could also be the old Mason Creek Trail
Posted by:
string cheeze on Jun 07, 2023 05:03 PM
Olgoat on Ira Spring Trail - Mason Lake
That is the old Mason Lake trail. Sections of it are kind of brutal but, it’s nice in that it’s in the woods so out of the sun. But it also misses any views and the bear grass when it’s in bloom.
Posted by:
Olgoat on Jun 07, 2023 05:23 PM
Jill_Naturelover on Ira Spring Trail - Mason Lake
Agreee, that is the Old Mason Lake Trail. We took that trail up to the lake during Covid and it was great as no one was on it. It is mainly out of the sun, peaceful and beautiful. There is one rock boulder section to go over where you can loose the trail but we picked it up again with GPS. To make a loop, we came down on the Ira Springs Trail.
Posted by:
Jill_Naturelover on Jun 07, 2023 08:23 PM
Chris Hanrahan on Ira Spring Trail - Mason Lake
I've. hiked that old trail too - love that it's unknown and you can almost have it to yourself.
Posted by:
Chris Hanrahan on Jun 08, 2023 10:29 AM