The trail starts climbing gradually as it traverses around the east edge of Woods Lake. It climbs up through conifer and aspen forest to the wilderness boundary at about one mile. The trail continues climbing, with occasional switchbacks past several small creeks and springs. It also passes through small meadows with excellent views of Dolores Peak and Little Cone. A about two-and-a-half miles it switchbacks more steeply up a drainage to timberline and a junction with the Elk Creek Trail (#407). From there it traverses across the tundra, crossing several small gullies to a saddle and the San Juan Forest boundary. The saddle provides extensive views of the southwestern edge of the San Juan range, along with the Four Corners area. From there it switchbacks down to a junction with the Navajo Lake trail, which leads to Navajo Lake or down to the Dunton road just above Burro Bridge campground.

Access: Two miles southwest of Placerville on Hwy. 145, turn right on Fall Creek Road (#618). Follow the road for 8 miles to Woods Lake, Beaver Park junction, near a bridge. Take the road straight for one mile to Woods Lake. Trailhead is on the left at the picnic area.