We can easily drive 30 minutes into high elevation aspen forests & alpine lakes when desired. Like the name suggests, youll be in awe of the color of the deep blue waters. Driving to Alpine Lakes Some lakes, like Cottonwood Lake or O'Haver Lake, are accessible by car, and even more can be found with a little hiking effort. San Juan National Forest. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The cold water is characteristic of alpine lakes. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Boating Lakes in Colorado | Summer Things to Do in Colorado - Grizzly Rose Lake Isabelle is located 2.1 miles from the Long Lake Trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. Bloods Lake and Lackawaxen Trail. Since the trail to get to Ice Lake is steep and long you should make sure to wear hiking boots. It connects the towns of Silverton and Ouray with Lake City, where it is generally considered to begin (and end). Distance: 6.8 milesElevation: 1,548 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape: Many 14er-enthusiasts camp here overnight before their summit bids. Distance: 7.7 milesElevation: 2,522 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Length: 7.9 mi Est. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Marys Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. From Bear Lake Trailhead it is about 4.2 miles roundtrip with 840 ft elevation gain. Take the dirt road up in elevation as it turns a bit rough closer to the lake. You will definitely want to wear hiking boots and bring trekking poles for this part of the trail. The 8.9-mile out-and-back trail is blazed in beauty. The hike from Ice Lake to Island Lake is about half a mile with 100 foot elevation gain. Share your suggestions or stories in the comments! This includes water, snacks, sun protection, extra layers, and more. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. person will not be tolerated. Jewel Lake is accessible by a three-mile hike and Clear Lake requires an eight-mile hike to get to. Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain views. 11. Its a burly hike in, especially with a pack, so be prepared. The hike will start with views of sweeping meadows and will follow along the South Boulder Creek. This ideal backpacking destination is located just minutes from the mountain town of Aspen. Many of the most amazing lakeside views in the state are easily accessible for beginner hikers. The 9.5-mile out-and-back trail located near Vail climbs nearly 3,000 feet in elevation before reaching the awe-inspiring mountain lake. The views along the way to these four alpine lakes do not disappoint. If you are actually interested in how my dogs are incredibly cared for (& my dog skijoring/ mushing ventures), you can see where they live via @mesamutts on IG - 5 acre fenced dog paradise. And find our listings for off-road outfitters and tour companies here. Photo Credit: The Gazette, Christian Murdock. Named for its stunning waters, Emerald Lake is overflowing with beauty. Stay awhile and enjoy the views! An alternative to driving on your own is toreserve a spoton the RFTA shuttle from Aspen Highlands Village to Maroon Bells. Alta Lakes whip up an alpine lake hike with a twist. To see views of Lower Blue Lake from above you need to continue hiking up the steep Blue Lakes Trial towards Middle Blue Lake. Those launching float tubes and canoes will appreciate being able to drive within spitting distance of the many lakes and small . Additionally, the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife may occasionally stock non-native fine-spotted Snake River Cutthroats, common in Wyoming and Idaho, into some fisheries. Both lakes are stunning, a gasping traverse through the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Doggies welcome. Enjoy magnificent views of aspens as you continue through sage and dense forest. Youll want to be prepared for cooler weather, even in the middle of summer. Winter enthusiasts can snowshoe the two to three miles up to the yurt and then onwards 2.5 miles to the lake where they can enjoy one of the most unique weekend trips from Denver. The hike gains more than 3,000 feet of elevation, so be prepared for a strenuous climb coached with incredible views to keep you distracted. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain | Colorado Springs Alpine Loop Colorado Department of Transportation Theres no shortage of fantastic mountain and lake views. Distance: 3.9 milesElevation: 1,062 feetDifficulty: Easy to moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: Sometimes the road in is closed, which adds about a mile each way. But once there, you can take in impressive panoramas of the valley below as well as hidden meadows, streams, and ponds. Enjoy spanning vistas of the Tenmile Range including Pacific Peak, Atlantic Peak, and Crystal Peak (all of which are excellent Colorado 13ers to try!). 1. The Loch is located at 10,200 ft in Rocky Mountain National Park. . Twin Lakes is located at the foot of the highest mountain in the entire Rocky Mountain Range along the continental divide and is also Colorados largest natural glacier lake. Here you'll find a campground, cabins, and dispersed camping. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Start at the main trailhead and wander up either Crystal Creek Road (the uphill ramp on your right if youre looking at the end of the lot) or continue straight past the lot to the upper lot (about a 5-car pull out) where the road intersects the Wheeler Trail. Located in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Upper Diamond Lake provides serenity and solitude even within this popular hiking area. You're going to want to bring your camera on these adventures. To get to the lake, you'll pass through two lakes Dream and Nymph. The round-trip distance from the lower trailhead is around 8 miles depending on your route, including some road walking, but the upper trail is actually an easy 4-ish mile round-trip jaunt. Bear Lake is a popular lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Most of these lakes are accessible by foot only, although you can also drive to quite a few of them. Be on the lookout for the moose who call this beautiful mountain landscape home! Photographers will appreciate the remarkable sunrise and night shot opportunities. To get to Island Lake, hike on Ice Lake Trail and after visiting Ice Lake, take a left on the trail to continue up to Island Lake. On July 21st, 2020, Skip, Bandit, Ezra, and I made our way from Colorado Springs, where we were visiting, up through Wyoming and Montana into Northern Idaho to visit family before heading back to Southern Idaho for work and school. Surface Area: 507 acres. Before you hit the trail, there are several important things to remember. Fly Fishing for Cutthroat Trout in Colorado - Vail Valley Anglers The trail is located near Glenwood Springs, offering the perfect post-adventure spot. For an invigorating day of outdoor fun, head over to these amazing, Hidden deep in the Rawah Wilderness near Fort Collins, is a secluded picturesque paradise with pristine alpine lakes and the spectacular Medicine Bow Mountains as their backdrop. Not to mention, the lake bottom is often rocky and very slippery. Today, this area is thought of as a near ideal spot for relaxation and water recreation, but it used to be a vital transportation destination after gold was discovered in nearby Aspen in 1879. Nineteen of the 24 lakes shown in the video sit above 10,000 feet in elevation. However, dont be fooled by the easy accessibility. In winter the trail may be impossible without ice climbing gear. If you do this hike in the winter, youll experience different scenery, but surely just as stunning. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. If you are looking for something a little easier to get to, try James Peak Wilderness. The fee is $5 per person (16 years and older), children under 16 are free. Arizona has many unique hiking opportunities with a wide range of elevation, climate, and views. 30 Alpine Lakes You Should Visit This Summer | Outdoor Project Breathtaking beauty awaits hikers at South Colony Lakes. Technically you can swim at many alpine lakes in Colorado, but you probably dont want to. Distance: 9.22 milesElevation: 2270 ftType: Out-and-back. 2023 Best 10 Trails and Hikes in Silverton | AllTrails Traverse forests of aspen and lodgepole pine and enjoy views of surrounding peaks and valleys before arriving at some of the, This 160-acre tarn resides at 12,836' at Summit Lake Park beneath Mt. Expect to see wildlife like moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or elk along the trail, especially in the late spring and early summer. Plan accordingly. Insanely Beautiful Colorado Lakes to Dip Your Toes in This Summer The deep blue waters of the Ice Lakes will leave you in awe. August 25, 2021 at 6:00 a.m. Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocked dozens of alpine lakes with more than 95,000 trout by airplane last week. But what if I told you we havent been given access to over half of whats really out there? Along the byway, you can travel through various scenery changes: start in a desert canyon and pass aspen foothills, lakes, alpine forests, lily ponds, and meadows bursting with wildflowers as you make your way to the top. It looked like a decent hike that led to such a clean and . Youll be gasping for air from the steep inclines and incredible scenes. Twin Lakes are two beautiful lakes located at the base of Mount Elbert, the tallest peak in Colorado. The Ute Indian tribe long inhabited this area before they were replaced by miners in the 1800s, who came in search of silver, gold, lead, and zinc. Distance: 0.8 milesElevation: 32 feetDifficulty: Easy with accessibility rampsRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. Distance: 6.92 milesElevation: 1804 ftType: Out-and-back. They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. The best time to visit is between June and October. You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. You'll find San Cristobal incredibly stunning. Start on the Glacier Gorge Trail (like you would for Sky Pond) except veer left at the fork. This adventure leads you through the Holy Cross Wilderness where youll be surrounded by beautiful forests. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. To the left, you can see the dramatic ridgeline called Keyboard of the Winds. The byway provides many scenic overlooks to view each of these Colorado beauties. 11 Alpine Lakes That Are Well Worth The Hike (And 1 Lake That You Can Drive To!) If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Backpack Gore Lake and catch a sunset in this unbelievable landscape. Grand Lake. Banff Sunshine. Gray Wolf Reintroduction, What Does 2023 Look Like In Colorado? Then recheck it the day before your hike. Be sure to bring your camera and a snack to enjoy at the lake, its really that unbelievable. Surrounding peaks of granite reflect off the lake's beautiful emerald green waters nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: 6.5 milesElevation: 1,804 feetDifficulty: moderate to difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail gets insanely busy in the summer, so start early. Youll need high clearance to get to the upper lot. Alpine Lakes Offer an Alternative to Crowded Fishing. Driving time: 4 to 6 hours. Forsythe Canyon Round-trip Distance: 2.2 miles Trailhead: Forsythe Canyon - Lincoln National Forest Difficulty: Easy This short hike starts just outside of Boulder. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. On the way youll pass three additional lakes, including the iconic Dream Lake. Think you need to be a hiking pro to enjoy amazing alpine lake hikes in Colorado? Alpine lakes, old cabins, creek crossings, summer wildflowers, a stupendous waterfall, and unimaginable views. There is plenty of fishing, swimming, camping, and even small, easy hiking trails that provide plenty of family fun. Sprague is one of the best places to catch the sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: Depends. Thousands of fish dropped from plane into Colorado alpine lakes Before reaching Heart Lake, be sure to soak in the alpine views first at Rogers Lake. Photo by Kyle Jenkins. Use a private browsing window to sign in. In reality, you can make your way to an alpine lake any time of the year. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox. Here are the lessons I have learned! The total hike round trip to Middle Blue Lake is 7.6 miles with 2,292 ft elevation gain. Local Tip: The Bear Lake parking area fills up quickly throughout the year, even on weekdays, so plan on arriving early or be prepared to take a shuttle. This is a do-able day hike, but there are spots for camping if you want to stay overnight. Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. The trail is about 6.8 miles round trip to Ice Lake with 2,457 ft elevation gain. Distance: 8.47 milesElevation: 1706 ftType: Loop. Lake Blanche Trail : An absolute must-see for the aspiring Wasatch adventurer . This adventure leads you to one of Rocky Mountain National Parks deepest lakes (~50 ft deep). At these lakes you can canoe, kayak, and paddle board. Filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by mind-blowing settings, these backcountry bodies of water are meant to be enjoyed. Mohawk Lakes Trail, Colorado's Best Hike - Crazy About Colorado Though one of the shorter adventures on this list, the hike to Loch Vale in Rocky National Park is surely just as rewarding as the others. From meadows found in the montane life zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover. Start at Brainard Lake and make your way up the valley to Lake Isabelle where youll have views of the Isabelle Glacier a permanent snowfield. You must typically access these lake by hiking a few miles or by horseback. There is no overnight parking without a backcountry permit (we learned this the hard way) and there is an entry fee to get to the trailhead. Distance From Telluride: 10 miles | 22 minutes Accessibility: Rugged, off-road vehicle recommended Activities: Fishing, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding Located just 20 minutes outside of Telluride, Alta Lakes is a popular destination for couples and families seeking a convenient water retreat. Its always important to pack the Ten Essentials in a small backpack. Threats of harming another It's the state's highest peak. We searched for alpine lakes to hike to in the area and came across Crystal Lake in Saint Marie's, Idaho. Whether you make a day hike or weekend of it, these hidden, Tucked away at the intersection of two valleys in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, is the popular Brainard Lake Recreation Area, with its namesake lake resting at 10,500.' This water adventure features beautiful cascading waterfalls among steep rocky cliffs and lush green pine trees. This popular alpine lake Colorado hike near Vail, Colorado will take you across Pitkin Creek and on an intense, narrow climb up the mountain. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. Alpine lakes | Britannica Snow Lake Trail | Map, Guide - Washington | AllTrails Best Lakes for Fly Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park But on your way there, take moments of rest to appreciate the view of Longs Peak to the south and Tyndall Creek. Breathe in the fresh air and set up a hammock to enjoy the most incredible mountain and alpine lake backdrop. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Check out this adventure for impressive views of the Mount Evans Wilderness. Extend your time at this magnificent spot and camp at one of the campsites found around both lakes. Black lake is a stunning and dramatic lake nestled deep in Rocky Mountain National Park. Temperatures are often utterly freezing, since most alpine lakes are fed by snowmelt. This is one of the most iconic adventures in Colorado and for good reason! Directions SUV recommended: From the Town of Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (Route 135) north a total of 12.6 miles. The Arkansas and local streams around my home base of Salida were blown out and muddy well into July. To get there, follow Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes for 8.6 miles of out-and-back beauty. Be Proactive. Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park lies Dream Lake. Not so much an alpine lake hike as it is a recreation hot spot, Wellington Lake is an awesome place to explore earlier in the season before the alpine lakes in Colorado are thawed. You'll find this alpine gem located near Nederland. Colorado's Alpine Loop is affectionately called the " Switzerland of America" for a reason! The best lakes in Colorado often require hard hikes to get to but that also means that you can enjoy them with less people. Located near Gardener, Colorado, this amazing alpine lake Colorado hike starts with a downhill trek into a vast, meadow with stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. 25 Beautiful Alpine Lakes in Colorado - The Outbound The mountains surrounding Mirror Lake defy gravity, and early in the morning, you can get a perfect reflection of the famous Lone Eagle Peak (named the most beautiful mountain in Colorado). Think again! Bear Lake Bear Lake located in Rocky Mountain National Park Located off of Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, Bear Lakes makes for a quick pit stop. To make this a longer adventure, you can keep the fun going all the way to Bear Lake. Photo Credit: Jose A Feliciano Cestero (iStock). Starting at 10,390 elevation and reaching 12,000 this hike has it all. Overview. Where can I camp next to a lake near Denver? Ice Lake Trailhead is located 7 miles west of Silverton. Give them instructions about who to call if they dont hear from you. Distance: 2.8 milesElevation: 885 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and local tips: Dogs are allowed to use this trail. Travel guides created to inspire and enable people to use their time away from the office to explore the world. The Upper Piney River trailhead begins at Piney Lake and winds through aspen meadows bursting with columbines, before passing by the cascading Piney Falls and ultimately leading to Upper Piney Lake at the headwaters of the Piney River just above 11,000.' It even has a wheelchair-friendly trail, making it an ideal choice for those who may need a little extra encouragement to hit the trail. Distance: 10.2 milesElevation: 2,014 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail is primarily used for driving (an easy off-road trial) but if you dont mind the walk, you can hike it just give way to vehicles and take care. Once you get to the lake, focus on the right shoreline, where there is a great drop off for fish to hang out around. Dog-Friendly: Bloods Lake - No, Lake Lackawaxen - Yes. Check out three different alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness with the Crater Lakes Trail. In the summer, the trail becomes a 44 road that you can still hike on, terminating at a parking lot. 17 Gorgeous Lakes in Colorado That Are Perfect For Summer Spooky indeed! Be cautious, however, as thunderstorms are quite common in the summertime. . Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, the trail to access starts off at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. It can be hard to narrow down which hikes, Colorado is a beautiful state with tall peaks, incredible lakes, and four unique national parks. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Mary's Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Local Tip: Check out Ouray, one of the most stunning Colorado mountain towns, post-hike! About. Loop or Out and Back: Out and Back or Loop. Must Visit Stunning Lakes in Colorado | Insider Families VIDEO: Aerial Fish Stocking Operation Brings Trout to Colorado's The 11 Best Swimming Holes In Colorado To Visit This Summer Take the Wheeler trail until it intersects with Crystal Creek Road. Another long-distance doozy, the Twin Crater Lakes hike is well-worth a backpack, unless you have hiking superpowers, in which case, it technically can be done in a day. Since its such an iconic spot, you likely wont find yourself alone, unless you plan wisely and go early in the season, late in the evening, or during the winter. Alpine lake help, I know this is a long shot! : ) - FishExplorer 31 Amazing Alpine Lakes in Colorado to See in 2023 + Local Tips or anything. Encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world as you wind your way through an alpine wonderland, mountain reservoirs, beyond timberline, overtaking the clouds. Another iconic alpine lake hike in Colorado, Ice Lake brings you unbelievable brilliant blue waters. Lake Helene is another great option for explorers of Rocky Mountain National Park. Again, it depends. There are few hidden gems better to explore in the mountainous state of Colorado than the high alpine waters. Many of Colorado's high lakes are found in roadless or wilderness areas. Take the Glacier Gorge Trail up a steep, winding dramatic valley that terminates at the famed Sky Pond. UPPER & LOWER BUSHNELL LAKES. North Slope Recreation Area | Colorado Springs Take a Scenic Drive Through Rocky Mountain National Park In fact, this is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trek your way through stunning alpine country to one of the most picturesque lakes in the state Hanging Lake. What I love about this Colorado lake hike is just how quiet it is. Upper Blue Lake is the third lake on Blue Lakes Trail. Many of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado are alpine lakes with clear blue water. Green Mountain Reservoir. Stargazing at night is amazing, so be sure to bring a camera if youre into night photography! that is degrading to another person. Located outside of the beautiful mountain town of Vail, the trail to the lake is about 12.5 miles out-and-back. Alpine Lakes in Colorado. Discover this alpine wonder by taking Rogers Pass Trail, a 9.1-mile out-and-back trail located near Rollinsville. Overall, this is a gentle hike with typical views, well worth the short trip if you are in the area. Blue Lakes Basin is a must for explorers of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness. The Lake Haiyaha hike is accessible year-round, Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Like a Local, Altitude Sickness Prevention for Your Mountain Hike, best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Things to do in Colorado this Winter Besides Ski, 13 Mega-Epic Hikes in Estes Park, Colorado. Distance: 8.56 milesElevation: 2057 ftType: Out-and-back. The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! There are three lakes in the basin. For more information on how to do this lake loop, continue to our Rocky Mountain National Park Guide. Toll. For a real adventure, combine your lake hike in Colorado with an overnight at a yurt. It's the state's highest peak. The 15 Highest Elevation Lakes in the United States - AZ Animals Arguably one of the most scenic backpacking routes in Colorado, Gore Lake delivers alpine beauty unlike anything else.Make your way up the challenging trail to an alpine scene that literally looks like a painting. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 160 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Maroon Lake is worth a visit year-round, including in the (much quieter) winter months. Every experience in the outdoors can prove to be a learning opportunity. Length: 63 miles. There are other great trout reservoirs in the area, but only Spinney is a Gold Medal water. You'll take the Continental Falls via the Mohawk Lakes trail to the falls. Parking is $5 at the Summit Lake parking lot. The trail will take you through both wildflower-filled meadows and forest. Lake Isabelle. 7 Popular Colorado ATV & Jeep Trails | Colorado.com Dont forget to turn left at the graves or youll pass right by the final push to Gore Lake! This is one of the easiest lakes on this list to get to, but is therefore also the most crowded. Another worthwhile alpine lake hike near Breckenridge is Crystal Lake, which gives the ultimate solitude and scenery double punch.