Two small lakes with few redeeming values. Upper Lake prettier. Worthwhile for a short break and some exercise when driving over Kootenay Pass.
Difficulty: Easy A1
Elevation gain: 250m (820′)
Key elevations: TH 1600m (5248′); Lower Lake 1760m (5773′), Upper Lake 1850m (6068′)
Distance: 3km one-way
Time: 2 hours
Season: late June through October
Map: 82F/2 Creston
Drive:
From Creston: At Junction of Hwy 3 and 3A, on the north edge of Creston, drive Hwy 3 west 28.8km (17.9mi). The turn is 2km after the SALMO 56KM sign. Turn right (north) onto the unpaved road. Zero odometer.
From Brake Check areas next to Bridal Lake at Kootenay Pass, in Stagleap PP: Drive east on Hwy 3, 15.5km (9.6mi). Turn left onto the unsigned road. Zero odometer.
0.0 Starting north of Placer Road. At 100m, proceed on main road NE. Cross creek at .5km. Deep water bar at 2.6km. Road ascends steeply.
4.2km Bear right. 4.5km Go left. Brush on road.
5.3km Go right.
6km Road very bushy – walk from here if want to protect vehicle.
6.5km. Parking at 1600m (5248′)
Trail: The trail is overgrown. After 10 minutes leave the old road and enter forest. After 20 minutes, reach tiny, reedy Lower Placer Lakes 1760m (5773′). Follow SE shore and ascend west through subalpine forest.
After 45 minutes and 3km, reach Upper Placer Lake 1850m (6068′).