To get to the trailhead there is the service road again — steep and rough. We’re just praying not to meet anyone, because stopping on this hill is not an option if you don't have 4x4. The traction control keeps flashing the whole time. Luckily, only about 10% of the road is this steep. Be prepared for the full parking lot.

Thornton Lakes is a beautiful hike. If you have the whole day and you are enough fit and brave, you can even connect this hike with a Trappers Peak. You can do it as a day hike or overnight backpack trip. First part of the hike is pretty easy, the other part is more steep, but definitely worth to finish it. Most of the time you are covered in the forest, so it's not an issue to start later. By the Thornton Lake, there's an absolutely peaceful place by the water.