Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. To make this a longer adventure, you can keep the fun going all the way to Bear Lake. 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. Doggies welcome. Be Nice. Hike to the base of several Colorado 14ers at South Colony Lakes and enjoy one of the best hikes in Colorado. Want a bit more of a challenge? This trail is popular and can get very crowded, so try to hike it either really early or much later in the day. 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. Mohawk Lakes Trail is one of Colorado's best day hikes. Distance: 10.6 milesElevation: 2,578 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: To get to this trailhead youll want a high-clearance vehicle. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. High-clearance vehicles are best suited for getting to this scenic secluded spot. Lizard Head Pass Near Telluride above 10,000 feet in southwest Colorado, this pass provides staggering views of Colorado's jagged San Juan Mountains in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Start on the Glacier Gorge Trail (like you would for Sky Pond) except veer left at the fork. Not your computer? You'd better allow 7 hours to fully enjoy the scenic beauty, however. The 6.3-mile hike takes 2.5-3 hours, and the elevation gain is very gradual for. The road will dead end at Moffat Tunnel where you'll find ample parking in a gravel lot with restrooms. If you are a fan of high alpine lakes without having to travel far . In winter, you will have to take a walk-around to avoid avalanche terrain so be alert. There is no shortage of beautiful lakes near Denver, and there are several with magnificently blue water. No dogs are allowed in the yurt over winter. Suggest edits to improve what we show. This adventure leads you to one of Rocky Mountain National Parks deepest lakes (~50 ft deep). Sculpted by the forces of volcanoes, glaciers, wind, and rain, the resulting mountains, valleys, streams, and lakes are a masterpiece of nature's artistry. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. Eloping in Colorado gives you access to epic views of 15 mountain ranges, 54 peaks over 10,000 feet, alpine lakes, meadows of wildflowers, and a vast variety of gorgeous backdrops. There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. Youll be gasping for air from the steep inclines and incredible scenes. It connects the towns of Silverton and Ouray with Lake City, where it is generally considered to begin (and end). Its my favorite backpacking route in Colorado and well-worth an overnight. Sprague Lake is one of the most easily accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Take the Wheeler trail until it intersects with Crystal Creek Road. Thats right, a hiking trail that features a lake and an abandoned mining town! If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. Photo: Nicola EasterbyDistance: 3.06 milesElevation: 1168 ftType: Out-and-back. Elevation Gain: 465 feet. Alpine lakes, old cabins, creek crossings, summer wildflowers, a stupendous waterfall, and unimaginable views. Black lake is a stunning and dramatic lake nestled deep in Rocky Mountain National Park. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. More Information 2. Youll begin the hike winding through dense forest before the scenery opens up to an incredible view of Longs Peak. There are a total of six campsites along the route as well as at the lake. 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. Almost countless. We strive to work together to protect public lands and fight for the well-being of our future generations so they, too, may be able to experience these landscapes. There's a one-way road that loops around the lake and parking for trailheads leading to Blue and Mitchell Lakes in the north valley and Isabelle and Long Lakes to the south. There is nothing better than waking up and enjoying a hot cup of coffee next to a cold alpine lake. Nestled in Roosevelt National Forest, you can set foot on this adventure to three alpine lakes and a lagoon with the opportunity to pass by splendid waterfalls and wildflowers. Distance: 4.4 miles in summer, 11 miles in winterElevation: 448 in summer, 1,030 in winterDifficulty: Easy (moderate in winter)Red Tape and Local Tips: The Brainard Lake Recreation Area requires a fee for day use. This water adventure features beautiful cascading waterfalls among steep rocky cliffs and lush green pine trees. Located in the San Juan Mountains, the lake also attracts a variety of wildlife including elk and moose. The United States Should Adopt The Allemannsretten, 5 Great Spots in Colorado for Fall Colors. Gore Lake. Discover this alpine wonder by taking Rogers Pass Trail, a 9.1-mile out-and-back trail located near Rollinsville. In layman's terms, they are the state's finest fisheries. With that being said, typically alpine lakes are frozen and mostly snow-free starting in July through around mid-October depending on the year. Make your way up the two-mile trail to the base of St. Mary's Glacier (not really a glacier, but a permanent snowfield) where there is a picture-perfect alpine lake. Twin Lakes are two beautiful lakes located at the base of Mount Elbert, the tallest peak in Colorado. Capping out at 12,183 feet in elevation, at its summit, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous road in the country. The fee is $5 per person (16 years and older), children under 16 are free. Lowest Depth: 265 feet. This is the most beautiful lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, and can be combined with Bear Lake and Emerald Lake. Visitors to the lake have the option to rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard. There are other great trout reservoirs in the area, but only Spinney is a Gold Medal water. Learn more To get to the lake, you'll pass through two lakes Dream and Nymph. After turning on to Co. 16 (Tolland Rd.) This lake is in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. On the way to Emerald Lake you will also pass Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. Visitors to the lake have the option to rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard. Yes. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. There is a road where you can drive down next to the lakes, and a different road that you can drive up for views of the lakes. But once there, you can take in impressive panoramas of the valley below as well as hidden meadows, streams, and ponds. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. Snow Lake Trail. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism For a brief time, in only the warmest months of the year, will you find the waters of the Green Mountain Reservoir tolerable for swimming. For dramatic views of Longs Peak and the iconic Diamond headwall, head up to Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike to Chasm Lake Photo: Kyle Frost Distance: 8.02 miles Elevation: 2500 ft Type: Out-and-back If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. Distance: 14.94 milesElevation: 2421 ftType: Out-and-back. Access: Transit to Trails is a great option for these hikes! The video showcases the beauty of Colorado's high country. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Youll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. Alpine Loop drive takes 4-6 hours to cover the distance between Ouray, Lake City, and Silverton. Blue Lakes Trail in Colorado is an easy daytime hike that features expansive alpine landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters. Stay awhile and enjoy the views! Primarily characterized as an alpine tundra region, its total distance is approximately 65 miles and can be completed in about 7 hours (or more), typically under normal circumstances. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls. There was an error processing your request. The first couple miles of the hike are extremely steep and difficult. With 50 square miles of golden aspens. If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Before you hit the trail, there are several important things to remember. Take the dirt road up in elevation as it turns a bit rough closer to the lake. + Save to a List. Youll want to be prepared for cooler weather, even in the middle of summer. Colorado's Alpine Loop is affectionately called the " Switzerland of America" for a reason! Don't Threaten. Dogs are welcome but keep them leashed, Im not kidding about the moose! The best time to do this hike is early in the morning for sunrise you wont be mad you did! Sandbeach Lake has a wide sandy shore thats perfect for picnicking or simply sitting to take in the scenery. The alpine wonder rests at an elevation of 10,630 feet located between Flattop Mountain (12,324 feet) and Notchtop Mountain (12,129 feet) ). Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway, Colorado. Dogs are welcome, but due to the crowds, keep Fido leashed. . Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park lies Dream Lake. To the left, you can see the dramatic ridgeline called Keyboard of the Winds. Be sure to bring your camera and a snack to enjoy at the lake, its really that unbelievable. Forsythe Canyon Round-trip Distance: 2.2 miles Trailhead: Forsythe Canyon - Lincoln National Forest Difficulty: Easy This short hike starts just outside of Boulder. The total hike round trip to Upper Blue Lake is 8 miles with 2,404 ft elevation gain. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. The trail is located near Glenwood Springs, offering the perfect post-adventure spot. 5h 16m. There are a lot of famous alpine lake hikes in Colorado to discover. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. 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. Theres nothing more grounding and invigorating than a rousing climb to a crystal clear alpine lake, followed by a little exploration, relaxation, (and certainly a picnic), at a pristine mountain paradise at around 11,000. These serene alpine lakes near Denver are something everyone should experience this summerbut please remember our earth is fragile so LEAVE NO TRACE! Distance: 2.8 milesElevation: 885 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and local tips: Dogs are allowed to use this trail. 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. Be cautious, however, as thunderstorms are quite common in the summertime. Alpine Lakes in Colorado. In the spring and early summer you can enjoy wildflowers on the hikes, and in the fall you get to see the Aspens fall foliage. 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. The Lake Haiyaha hike is accessible year-round and a great option for beginners or those looking for a gentle day and one of the best winter hikes in Colorado. Once you get to the lake, focus on the right shoreline, where there is a great drop off for fish to hang out around. accounts, the history behind an article. It's demandingthe two 12,000-foot passes (Cinnamon and Engineer) require a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle but the well-prepared motorist reaps . It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. This moderate trail evokes a classic Colorado Rocky Mountain charm. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. If you're looking for a large and yet completely natural lake, then Grand Lake is the place to be in Colorado. The natural beauty of a waterfall is within easy reach of Denver. As a consequence, by mid-June I The trail flattens out at the basin below Columbine Lake and once you arrive you're in for a real treat. If you're looking for a secluded adventure, the Mohawk Lakes (upper and lower) are the perfect alpine escape for you. This Rocky Mountain National Park adventure provides an opportunity to catch an unforgettable sunrise. 5 hidden lakes in Colorado you probably never knew exsisted Alpine Lake. Seriouslyover 2,000! Once at the lakes, you can go for a swim (so bring a suit!) Take a look at these butt-busting lake hikes in Colorado. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 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. Bring your camera and pack some tasty snacks! All photos (263) This is a phenomenal spot for a picnic lunch and a SUP experience. Kevin BuggieBPL Member. These Colorado lake hikes deliver a bit more of a challenge, but that just makes the reward that much sweeter. This scenic hike in Rocky Mountain National Park begins at the popular Glacier Gorge trailhead, but you can avoid the crowds by heading out later in the afternoon and be rewarded by an incredible sunset. The lakes are also great fishing destinations, so be sure to pack a rod and some tackle along with your tent for a surreal nature getaway. that is degrading to another person. Distance: 8.6 miles from the lower lot, the upper lot cuts about a mile or so off each way (see Crystal Lake)Elevation: 2,129 feet from the lower lot (see Cyrstal Lake)Difficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: This is a dog-friendly area packed with awesome 13er hiking opportunities. We'd love to hear eyewitness Snow and ice are melting, wildflowers are emerging, and the most beautiful lakes near Denver will soon glisten with an unrivaled beauty that beckons you to bask on their shimmering shores and recharge the natural way. Tucked under Mt Elbert, Colorado's tallest peak sits two pristine alpine lakes nestled beside the town of Twin Lakes. In the Fall, the Aspen grove comes alive with color, making for an especially memorable experience. Set a check-in time and have that person try to check in with you first, before calling authorities (just in case you forget to circle back). 1. This lake is known for the reflection you can see in the lake of 14,000 ft tall Maroon Peaks. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Its best to check with AllTrails.com or even local hiking Facebook groups to get the most up-to-date information. In terms of the best lake hikes, Colorado offers some incredibly unique lakes and the Hanging Lake hike takes the cake. The breathtaking clear blue American Lake is located in Aspen, Colorado. or anything. Another iconic alpine lake hike in Colorado, Ice Lake brings you unbelievable brilliant blue waters. Lake Isabelle is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado (add about five miles round trip for the winter hike). Embark on an adventure at Pitkin Lake. There are plenty of hiking opportunities, but taking it easy and simply sitting back or fishing in the lake is the perfect way to slow down, unwind, and just be. We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. 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. from 119 at Rollinsville, drive about 8 miles down the dirt road along South Boulder Creek. Distance: 6.92 milesElevation: 1804 ftType: Out-and-back. Its still worth a visit, even if you arent climbing. Distance: 4.51 milesElevation: 1090 ftType: Out-and-back. Although the entire hike is 2.4 miles long, you will arrive at the lake in half a. The parking lot at Bear Lake Trailhead typically gets full very early, so make sure to get there early so you dont have to take a shuttle. . Bear Lake is a short walk from Bear Lake Trailhead and you can add a 0.6 mile loop around the lake to enjoy it more. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. The hike from Ice Lake to Island Lake is about half a mile with 100 foot elevation gain. 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. Pass by several waterfalls on your way to one of the most magnificent lakes in all of Colorado. 1. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! Distance: 0.8 milesElevation: 32 feetDifficulty: Easy with accessibility rampsRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Bierstadt, and even Denver at times. Granite spires surrounding the lake, one referred to as sharks tooth. There are also two 13,000-foot peaks nearby, Taylor and Powell. Keep in mind, the average hiker moves at about 2 miles an hour or covers 1,000 feet of elevation gain in an hour. Above treeline, the weather can move in quickly and even on a sunny day, the air can feel quite cool. This list of the 16 top destinations in the Southwest US will, Your email address will not be published. Gold Medal Lakes in Colorado. By: Lakes at 12,000 feet above sea level may only offer a couple of months of fishing due to the heavy snowfall in Colorado. This adventure will bring you by wide open meadows and plenty of wildlife (look out for moose and elk!) . In the summer, this is one of the best and easiest lake hikes in Colorado. 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. Chasm Lake makes for a beautiful summer adventure. Harder To Reach: Lawn Lake. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). Mohawk Lakes offer plenty of picture-perfect backcountry camping or opportunities to summit nearby mountains, such as Father Dyer. Lake Haiyaha is a stunning lake with clear teal water. Make sure to pay attention to trail signs and take a GPS, there are a lot of intersecting trails in the area. There are few hidden gems better to explore in the mountainous state of Colorado than the high alpine waters. It's the state's highest peak. Please note, reservations may be required to visit the park. Enjoy magnificent views of aspens as you continue through sage and dense forest. 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. If youre looking for short, sweet, and steep with incredible views, Windsor Lake near Leadville is an awesome choice. Photo by Kyle Jenkins. Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, the 9.4-mile out-and-back trail features a rushing waterfall, granite mountain views, and colorful spring blooms. Moderate (difficult in winter) 2.4-mile out-and-back. Along the way, catch sight of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. It's a roughly 12-mile trek that leads to Upper Cataract Lake below the famed Eagles Nest Mountain looming at an impressive 13,432,' then continues on to Cat Lake and ultimately to Mirror Lake, which lies at 11,020.' Distance: 8.1 milesElevation: 1,765 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs allowed. Distance: 9.22 milesElevation: 2270 ftType: Out-and-back. There are three lakes in the basin. Distance: 2.8 miles round trip. Parking is $5 at the Summit Lake parking lot. Getting caught in a lightning storm at altitude is dangerous, it kills people every year, so be sure to check the weather and plan appropriately. Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no . They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. Photo: Ryan DewaneDistance: 8.43 milesElevation: 1780 ftType: Out-and-back. These high-altitude lakes are typically much clearer than their low elevation counterparts and are often fed directly by snowmelt. Huskies also thrive in Colorado - alpine lakes, cross . Just be sure if you ask a hiking group, you make it clear that youve already checked with good old Google. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. The Outbound Collective or drop a line and try your luck with some fishing. Located near Idaho Springs, St. Mary's Glacier is known for its alpine lake and, you guessed it, glacier. Table of Contents hide 1 Shadow Mountain Lake 2 Green Mountain Reservoir 3 Dream Lake 4 Two Rivers Lake 5 Crater Lake 6 Grand Lake 7 Lake Granby 8 Piney Lake 9 Sylvan Lake State Park 10 Twin Lakes 11 Lake Dillon 12 Blue Mesa Reservoir 13 Chatfield State Park Once you arrive, you wont want to leave which is why many people consider Gore Lake one of the best backpacking trips in Colorado. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. Distance: 11.32 milesElevation: 2375 ftType: Out-and-back. Distance: 3.77 milesElevation: 722 ftType: Out-and-back. For the best wildflowers, do this hike in late July. Local Tip: This hike is also near some of the best free camping near Denver. At these lakes you can canoe, kayak, and paddle board. Its nine miles round trip, gaining about 1,780 feet of elevation. Not to mention, the lake bottom is often rocky and very slippery. You'll take the Mitchell Lake Trail, crossing Mitchell Creek and passing Mitchell Lake along the way. Sky Pond is one of the most jaw-dropping sights to see. No dogs. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Mary's Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Photo: Abby VohaskaDistance: 8.81 miles Elevation: 2635 ftType: Out-and-back. Distance: 10.5 milesElevation: 2,975 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Parking is limited so consider taking the free bus from the Vail Village parking structure to the trailhead. Distance: 12.9 milesElevation: 2,919 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are allowed if on a leash and the best time to visit is between March and October. 8 to 4 miles Round TripElevation: Depends. Arrive early to get a spot and spend more of the day exploring! all along the way to the 14,115 foot summit of America's most . Come prepared for changing weather conditions. Make your way up the two-mile trail to the base of St. Marys Glacier (not really a glacier, but a permanent snowfield) where there is a picture-perfect alpine lake. The 8.9-mile out-and-back trail is blazed in beauty. Print/PDF map. If you are looking for something a little easier to get to, try James Peak Wilderness.