Improve this listing. Distance: 5.53 milesElevation: 1056 ftType: Out-and-back. Youll find over 2,000 alpine lakes in Colorado. Columbine Lake Trail #509 in San Juan National Forest is a difficult and steep trail with 16 discernible switchbacks but it's worth the effort. This article will walk you through the best lakes in Colorado and how to get to these lakes. 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. Insanely Beautiful Colorado Lakes to Dip Your Toes in This Summer The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. Distance: 11.32 milesElevation: 2375 ftType: Out-and-back. Hurricane Nora is forecast to track near Baja California and along the Gulf of California through this weekend with moisture spreading into the Southwest U.S. by the middle of next week. Photos (9,863) Directions. The hike to lower blue lake is 6 miles round trip with 1,610 ft elevation gain. From Bear Lake Trailhead it is about 4.2 miles roundtrip with 840 ft elevation gain. Filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by mind-blowing settings, these backcountry bodies of water are meant to be enjoyed. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! Snow Lake Trail. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 42 min to complete. 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. Another difficult hike for your Colorado bucket list, Mills Lake boasts 11 miles of stunning beauty. RELATED: Views are stunning and fish . 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. BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN COLORADO - Vows And Peaks Which lake near Denver has the bluest water? Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy spanning alpine lake views. What I love about this Colorado lake hike is just how quiet it is. 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. It's the state's highest peak. Lake Helene is another great option for explorers of Rocky Mountain National Park. Check out three different alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness with the Crater Lakes Trail. Camping in dispersed camping areas gives you the opportunity for a little more privacy and peace and quiet. Discover the alpine beauty of Mirror Lake. To see most of these incredible lakes in Colorado on one road trip, check out our Colorado Road Trip Itinerary. Tell someone about your plans. Seriouslyover 2,000! Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Here are 11 of the best swimming holes in Colorado, from pristine lakes to reservoirs, waterfall pools, and everything in between. This is a do-able day hike, but there are spots for camping if you want to stay overnight. The picturesque lakes are tucked away near the mountains of Breckenridge. Make sure you have the necessary permits before setting up camp. The total hike round trip to Middle Blue Lake is 7.6 miles with 2,292 ft elevation gain. 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 . Distance: 9.1 milesElevation: 2,142 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Chicago Lakes can get pretty crowded, but there are plenty of prime backpacking sites to pitch a tent and enjoy the views! This is a phenomenal spot for a picnic lunch and a SUP experience. The hike is difficult but is worth the challenge to get to one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. The Sangre de Cristo mountains offer tranquil scenery without the hustle and bustle of the weekend warrior crowd near Denver. Fall is a great time to visit for the changing aspens, but if you love wildflowers, consider a late-spring to summer visit. Fly Fishing Alpine Lakes for Remote Monsters - Fly Fisherman 1. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Mary's Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. 5h 16m. At 13,420 feet, Pacific Tarn is the highest alpine lake in the United States, and you can have it all to yourself. 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. 11 Best Lakes Near Denver To Visit This Summer - OnlyInYourState Alpine Lakes Offer an Alternative to Crowded Fishing. The lake has an elevation of 9,905 feet at the base of Hallett's Peak, which is accessible via the famed Bear Lake trailhead. You'll find Continental Falls in the White River National Forest near Breckenridge. Nestled in those mountains behind Trout Lake sits Hope Lake. Take a Scenic Drive Through Rocky Mountain National Park Both alpine lakes sit at an elevation of about 11,000 feet. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. Distance: 9.7 milesElevation: 1,643 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: If you plan on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, youll need to pay the $25 entrance fee. The alpine wonder rests at an elevation of 10,630 feet located between Flattop Mountain (12,324 feet) and Notchtop Mountain (12,129 feet) ). Its also home to some of the best fall hikes in Colorado. "With an ample forage base such as scuds, crayfish, terrestrials, aquatic insects these fish can live 10 plus years and grow to very . Take the Wheeler trail until it intersects with Crystal Creek Road. Just be sure if you ask a hiking group, you make it clear that youve already checked with good old Google. There is nothing better than waking up and enjoying a hot cup of coffee next to a cold alpine lake. Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls. My anticipation grows with each new day, as the sun burns hotter, longer, and stronger, thawing the lakes and tundra of the high country and promising a summer filled with days spent in the wilds. 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. Overall, this is a gentle hike with typical views, well worth the short trip if you are in the area. Photo Credit: The Gazette, Christian Murdock. In winter the trail may be impossible without ice climbing gear. For dramatic views of Longs Peak and the iconic Diamond headwall, head up to Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. The trail is short and packed with beauty, about 2-miles out-and-back. Come prepared for changing weather conditions. Wander the lake at sunrise for incredible views. Green Mountain Reservoir. The Top 10 Lakes Near Telluride To Visit Lodging In Telluride This list of the 16 top destinations in the Southwest US will, Your email address will not be published. Dream Lake is a vision right out of a fairy tale in the early morning hours. This 7.7 miles trail boasts a wow factor unlike any other. 2. Getting to American Lake requires a steep 6 mile round trip hike with 2,000 ft elevation gain. This moderate hike is a great way to get the beautiful scenery of alpine lakes in Colorado without the lung-busting elevation gain. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Sharp granite cliffs rise straight out of the water as you gaze upon views of Longs Peak in the distance. The trail also features both forests and meadows budding with an abundance of wildflowers interspersed along the way. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. However, if you are up for a little hike, you'll discover that Blue Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness is true to its name. The designation means Spinney is public fishing water that produces a minimum of 12 fish of 14in or more and 60lbs per acre. Continue for several more miles until reaching the base of The Spearhead, a famous mountaineering objective. Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). Alpine Lakes Wilderness - Wikipedia 1. Editor's Note:Access to some of these lakes can vary due to a number of factors, including time of year. Before you hit the trail, there are several important things to remember. . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Parking early in the morning is free at the Bear Lake Trailhead. Visitors to the lake have the option to rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard. Distance: 2.93 milesElevation: 675 ftType: Loop. (Photo/David Young) Banff Sunshine is about a 15-minute drive from Banff and is serviced by a nearly 3-mile, eight-person gondola that transports skiers and snowboarders to the . 2,568 feet max, MUCH less if starting from the Wheeler Trail.Difficulty: Moderate to easy depending on your route.Red Tape and Local Tips: Unlike many of Colorados famed high clearance roads (where you can usually get away with a small SUV), the road to the top of Crystal Lake is an ACTUAL Jeep trail. Think again! With 50 square miles of golden aspens. Alpine lakes are defined by being any lake that sits above 10,000 feet above sea level. Distance: 4 miles in summer, 8 in winterElevation: 1,614 feet in summer, unknown to the lakeDifficulty: Easy to moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: Although there is a map on AllTrails, its not entirely accurate with distances. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Note that parking at the Brainard Lake Recreational Area lot costs $10 and fills up quickly. 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. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Pass by several waterfalls on your way to one of the most magnificent lakes in all of Colorado. Best Lakes for Fly Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park Along the way, catch sight of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. 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. Square Top Lakes, Guanella Pass Square Top Lakes via Shutterstock. You'd better allow 7 hours to fully enjoy the scenic beauty, however. Toll. Blue lake sits at 11,355 feet and is frozen for much of the year. The scenery is beautiful throughout and provides many opportunities for continued exploration while at the top! San Juan National Forest. As a consequence, by mid-June I 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. This alpine-lake hike should make every Coloradan's bucket list. 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. Alpine Loop Colorado Department of Transportation Dream Lake is a high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located east of the continental divide in northern Colorado. Every experience in the outdoors can prove to be a learning opportunity. Take in all the wondrous sights nature has to offer as you trek your way to Lake Agnes. It's about a 3-mile trek out-and-back. 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.' Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park lies Dream Lake. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different Lakes? 17 Gorgeous Lakes in Colorado That Are Perfect For Summer North Slope Recreation Area | Colorado Springs If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Cottonwood Lake The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado 10 "Drive-to" Lakes and Reservoirs in Colorado In Colorado's lakes and streams most Cutthroats average 9 to . from 119 at Rollinsville, drive about 8 miles down the dirt road along South Boulder Creek. The hike from Bear Lake Trailhead is 3.6 miles round trip with about 740 ft elevation gain. Check out our favorite alpine hikes in Colorado and neighboring states. So many, Nestled in a glorious alpine valley at 10,868' and framed by the stunning Indian Peaks is one of the, Piney Lake is a prime spot for a day of hiking and canoeing in the Eagles Nest Wilderness in the Gore Range near Vail. Gore Lake. Follow the signs to the Pikes Peak Highway entry gate. The freshwater lake is the perfect spot for boating or fishing. Stargazing at night is amazing, so be sure to bring a camera if youre into night photography! Distance: 3 milesElevation: 1,135 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: If you want a fighting chance at a less-crowded experience, go for sunrise. This popular alpine lake Colorado hike near Vail, Colorado will take you across Pitkin Creek and on an intense, narrow climb up the mountain. 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. Be sure to check local road conditions during the winter months, the road is unmaintained and closed, which adds an extra 3 to 4 miles each way. You'll find this alpine gem located near Nederland. Alpine Loop Byway - Lake City-Ouray-Silverton - Uncover Colorado The mountains of southern Colorado are littered with alpine lake hikes. In winter, you will have to take a walk-around to avoid avalanche terrain so be alert. Maroon Creek Road which leads to Maroon Bells is usually open between May and November and you are required to makereservations ahead of time to enter Maroon Bells area. 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. 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. If youre looking for short, sweet, and steep with incredible views, Windsor Lake near Leadville is an awesome choice. An alternative to driving on your own is toreserve a spoton the RFTA shuttle from Aspen Highlands Village to Maroon Bells. Walk another half mile and youll see a beautiful waterfall, followed by stellar views of Lily Lake. ATV The Alpine Loop Length: 65 mile loop Drive Time: 5-7 hours Fees: 3-day Pass: $6.00 7-day Pass: $12.00 Annual Pass: $45.00 Or America the Beautiful Pass (National Park Pass) Difficulty: 75% Easy / 25% Difficult (rock outcroppings, drop offs) Access: Easy ATV Friendly Town: Lake City Ideal Riding Season: Mid Summer - September 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. Those launching float tubes and canoes will appreciate being able to drive within spitting distance of the many lakes and small . 30 Alpine Lakes You Should Visit This Summer | Outdoor Project 10 Scenic Mountain Passes in Colorado - Uncover Colorado No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism before arriving at the lake, where goof fishing has been reported.