FKF Report

Ypsilon Lake - Charlie Sipes - Multiple Fish, Round Trip - 2022-08-01

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This FKF in Rocky Mountain NP (no dogs) has its challenges like entrance stations with reservations and tourists, but these are obstacles we are now accustomed to on the front range. Without an early start, the Lawn Lake trailhead can be quite busy. Use other parking if necessary, but start at the Lawn Lake TH. Quickly gain some elevation and views of the Roaring River. In 1982 the Lawn Lake Dam failed and the aftermath was, and still is, extreme. The wall of water that crashed into Horseshoe Park killed a couple backcountry campers, severely cut the banks, and created an alluvial fan, the site of many middle school field trips. Catch a small guy on the Roaring River. Don't miss the fork that heads west for Ypsilon. At the high point take in the gneiss views of Ypsilon Mountain and coast to the lake. There is a neat waterfall that keeps the higher Spectacle Lakes barren. Take a look at the falls because fish 2 of 3 is waiting in the inlet creek (Ypsilon Creek?). Now for the lake fishing. It will be windy because it always is in the Mummies. This course is primed for the taking because I couldn't leave (and am not fast). If you like watching footlong cutthroats rising from depths and slamming chunky dries, you won't be able to leave either. The pictured fish was the smallest I caught at the lake. Also, enjoy your beer at the lake instead of the car. The downhill cruise is nice.