To get the Independence Lake trail, go up the Mountain Loop Highway until reaching the 61.8 mile post.
Take a right onto Coal Lake Road #4060.
Travel 4.8 miles up the road before arriving at the trailhead located at the end of this road. This is an hour of a hike on a well maintained trail.
There is a small elevation gain of 500 feet, and a moderate 1.6 mile hike. The trail starts with a clear cut forest that was recently planted in the
beggining of the 60s. This recently planted forest turns into old growth timber by the end of the hike. Once you reach the lake there are camping sites
on both the north and the south sides of the lake. Great area for family picnicking, backpacking/camping, fishing, and even makes for a great swimming hole.
