colorado alpine lakes you can drive to colorado alpine lakes you can drive to

The byway provides many scenic overlooks to view each of these Colorado beauties. If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. Moderate (difficult in winter) 2.4-mile out-and-back. Here you'll find a campground, cabins, and dispersed camping. Directions SUV recommended: From the Town of Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (Route 135) north a total of 12.6 miles. During the Ice Age of the geologically . The Loch is located at 10,200 ft in Rocky Mountain National Park. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park lies Dream Lake. There is plenty of fishing, swimming, camping, and even small, easy hiking trails that provide plenty of family fun. Blue lake sits at 11,355 feet and is frozen for much of the year. 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. This lake is known for the reflection you can see in the lake of 14,000 ft tall Maroon Peaks. Start on the Glacier Gorge Trail (like you would for Sky Pond) except veer left at the fork. Awesome views, wildlife, lakes and wild flowers await you on this lollipop loop ride. The Alpine Loop leaves pavement and people behind, crossing the remote, rugged, spectacular heart of the San Juan Mountains. It's the state's highest peak. No dogs. When you get to the lake you can always take a swim if you are up for it, but expect the water to be really cold! Hike to Chasm Lake Photo: Kyle Frost Distance: 8.02 miles Elevation: 2500 ft Type: Out-and-back 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. In reality, you can make your way to an alpine lake any time of the year. But what if I told you we havent been given access to over half of whats really out there? Proposition 114 passed in Colorado and now the planning process begins. 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. Named for its stunning waters, Emerald Lake is overflowing with beauty. It's about a 3-mile trek out-and-back. Lake Isabelle. This includes water, snacks, sun protection, extra layers, and more. 1. The water is gorgeous. Connecting the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake, Trail Ridge Road traverses Rocky Mountain National Park, making this one of the most scenic mountain passes in Colorado. 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. You'll find Continental Falls in the White River National Forest near Breckenridge. The total hike round trip to Upper Blue Lake is 8 miles with 2,404 ft elevation gain. Take a Scenic Drive Through Rocky Mountain National Park Evans and Mt. Be on the lookout for the moose who call this beautiful mountain landscape home! 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. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. San Juan National Forest. This picturesque adventure boasts breathtaking mountain scenery. It is a long day hike (4.6 miles) one way with an elevation gain of 3,100ft. Head to the far side of this open space and follow the trail through a stream and continue upwards until you reach a campsite at about the one-mile mark. from 119 at Rollinsville, drive about 8 miles down the dirt road along South Boulder Creek. Maybird Lakes : Maybird Gulch is a rugged piece of the Lone Peak Wilderness in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Those launching float tubes and canoes will appreciate being able to drive within spitting distance of the many lakes and small . Plenty of camping up there and a dog-friendly area. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. Some hikes, like, Sedona is one of the most amazing places to hike and enjoy the beautiful nature. Be sure to check the weather before beginning this adventure as summer thunderstorms in this area can be aggressive. The park boasts a wide range of activities that include summiting 14,259-foot Longs Peak, camping in the expansive backcountry, hiking to waterfalls and alpine lakes and, of course, wildlife viewing. Reservations are no longer required until summer 2023. ppmicrosoftteams-image_24.png Enjoy Pikes Peak at your leisure on the safe, scenic Pikes Peak Highway. It's Denver's highest mountain park and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1965. Its nine miles round trip, gaining about 1,780 feet of elevation. Its still worth a visit, even if you arent climbing. Share your suggestions or stories in the comments! the most part. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Blue Lakes Trail in Telluride, Colorado takes you to three of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. With that being said, typically alpine lakes are frozen and mostly snow-free starting in July through around mid-October depending on the year. Although its hard to go wrong, heres a look at the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado for any ability level. The fastest way to get to this beautiful lake in the rocky mountains is to hike from Glacier Gorge Trailhead 5.4 miles round trip with 1,070 ft elevation gain. They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. Lake Ann - Only accessible by way of a 1.75-mile well-maintained trail, this pristine lake is ruggedly scenic and extremely protected. The video showcases the beauty of Colorado's high country. Like the name suggests, youll be in awe of the color of the deep blue waters. On Monday and . In winter the trail may be impossible without ice climbing gear. Located near Idaho Springs, St. Mary's Glacier is known for its alpine lake and, you guessed it, glacier. Surrounding peaks of granite reflect off the lake's beautiful emerald green waters nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park. The best time to do this hike is early in the morning for sunrise you wont be mad you did! On the way youll pass three additional lakes, including the iconic Dream Lake. It's a 1.8-mile trek (3.6 miles round trip). 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.' If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different Lakes? Hike to Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha Lakes, 25. Photo Credit: The Gazette, Christian Murdock. Please note, reservations are required to visit the park. Simply hike to Loch Vale instead. Surface Area: 507 acres. Cutthroats were originally named by William Clark on the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition. The breathtaking clear blue American Lake is located in Aspen, Colorado. Twin Lakes Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. Granite spires surrounding the lake, one referred to as sharks tooth. There are also two 13,000-foot peaks nearby, Taylor and Powell. Distance: 6.74 milesElevation: 2464 ftType: Out-and-back. Also, dont be an ass, you are not allowed to swim or climb around on the logs here. Are there any waterfalls I can visit near Denver? And located in the saddle of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain, Tyndall Glacier (one of five active glaciers in the park) offers breathtaking views. Resting beautifully at an elevation of 9,003 feet. Anglers should bring fishing gear as there are plenty of opportunities to fish for trout! 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.' If you're looking for a large and yet completely natural lake, then Grand Lake is the place to be in Colorado. 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. + Save to a List. Although the entire hike is 2.4 miles long, you will arrive at the lake in half a. Both lakes are stunning, a gasping traverse through the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Extend your time at this magnificent spot and camp at one of the campsites found around both lakes. 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. Photo: Abby VohaskaDistance: 8.81 miles Elevation: 2635 ftType: Out-and-back. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. For a real adventure, combine your lake hike in Colorado with an overnight at a yurt. There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. Among the lakes stocked on Monday, the highest of them - Ptarmigan Lake in Gunnison County - sits at 12,306 feet. It sits at an elevation of 11,860 ft with no distinguishing trail between the lower and upper lake. Distance: 9.22 milesElevation: 2270 ftType: Out-and-back. Jewel Lake is accessible by a three-mile hike and Clear Lake requires an eight-mile hike to get to. The views along the way to these four alpine lakes do not disappoint. Since it's a relatively short hike, this is a great one for a family nature outing. Distance: 10.6 milesElevation: 2,578 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: To get to this trailhead youll want a high-clearance vehicle. The 2.3-mile out-and-back trail starts off in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area and then winds on to the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Rocky Mountain National Park is just under a two-hour drive from Denver and an hour's drive from Boulder. More Information 2. Distance: 8.02 milesElevation: 2500 ftType: Out-and-back. Cash fees may apply for accessing the area. Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). Before reaching Heart Lake, be sure to soak in the alpine views first at Rogers Lake. 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. Maroon Lake brings you the best of the Bells, the Maroon Bells that is. Lower and Upper Mohawk Lakes and three other unnamed lakes are all in the area. However, with that being said, its still worth a visit to gaze upon this magical fairytale lake. This 2,125 acre man-made lake sits about 15 miles south of Kremmling, Colorado in Summit County. before arriving at the lake, where goof fishing has been reported. The trail is short and packed with beauty, about 2-miles out-and-back. Distance: 5.33 milesElevation: 1322 ftType: Out-and-back. 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. Bierstadt, and even Denver at times. Sprague is one of the best places to catch the sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park. Threats of harming another This Rocky Mountain National Park adventure provides an opportunity to catch an unforgettable sunrise. By the way, the lake we hiked to was Lost Lake past Eldora.loaded with brookies but also unfortunately with groups of loud hikers and overnight campers, despite the steep uphill climb. This adventure features three impressive alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park: The Loch, Glass Lake, and Sky Pond. Surprise Lake is also accessible from this set of trails, and all of the lakes offer the added bonus of being the perfect setting for a pristine, secluded backcountry campsite. 2. UPPER & LOWER BUSHNELL LAKES. Distance: 3.97 milesElevation: 1299 ftType: Out-and-back. 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. 17. This portion of the trail is very steep and scary so you have to be very careful and make sure to wear hiking boots and use trekking poles. Start from the Bear Lake parking lot and hike the gentle trail towards Lake Haiyaha, passing through the alluring Emerald Lake. What does 2023 look like for gray wolf reintroduction? Kevin BuggieBPL Member. With over 110 hiking trails, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and rugged ridgelines, it's no wonder this national park made its way onto our list! Throughout the post youll find: Absolutely. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Marys. Parking is $5 at the Summit Lake parking lot. Photos (9,863) Directions. The main attraction while at the lake is the commanding Hallett Peak. All photos (263) Hike your way up to the lakes for breath-taking views and lakeside goodness! These high-altitude lakes are typically much clearer than their low elevation counterparts and are often fed directly by snowmelt. Twin Lakes are two beautiful lakes located at the base of Mount Elbert, the tallest peak in Colorado. For more information on how to do this lake loop, continue to our Rocky Mountain National Park Guide. . If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Related: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Like a Local. Spooky indeed! If you do this hike in the winter, youll experience different scenery, but surely just as stunning. Where can I camp next to a lake near Denver? Chicago Lakes is a popular hiking trail in the Mount Evans Wilderness that has two magnificent lakes with stellar views of the foothills and of Mount Evans. Distance: 8.12 milesElevation: 2037 ftType: Out-and-back. While the 7.9-mile out-and-back trail is relatively easy for day hikers used to the distance, there are several campgrounds located along the shore of the lowest lake. The best time to visit lakes in Colorado is between May and October when there is no snow so they are easier to get to. 20 Gift Ideas for People Who Love to Travel, 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary: From Hot Springs to Cloud Forests, Sedona Off the Beaten Path: Sedona Hidden Gems, Top Shaded Hikes in Sedona: Sedona Summer Hikes, 16 Top Destinations in the Southwest US You Must See. Its always important to pack the Ten Essentials in a small backpack. This is a phenomenal spot for a picnic lunch and a SUP experience. . They have recently been working in that area, so check with the Forest Service for recent conditions. Sundial Peak over Lake Blanche. Backpack to three alpine lakes and an alpine lagoon in Roosevelt National Forest. Located in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Upper Diamond Lake provides serenity and solitude even within this popular hiking area. Dont expect solitude here, even in the dead of winter. Huskies also thrive in Colorado - alpine lakes, cross . The hike will start with views of sweeping meadows and will follow along the South Boulder Creek. Rocky Mountain National Park's 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompasses a spectacular range of mountain environments. The hike to lower blue lake is 6 miles round trip with 1,610 ft elevation gain. Rocky Mountain National Park is a hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies. To get to lake and back, you're looking at an 8.2-mile trek located near Crestone. There are a lot of famous alpine lake hikes in Colorado to discover. Along the way, catch sight of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. Again, it depends. The winding hike leads you past dreamy fields of wildflowers before reaching the sparkling aqua the area is known for. Distance: 6.8 milesElevation: 1,548 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape: Many 14er-enthusiasts camp here overnight before their summit bids. This adventure features several waterfalls, streams, a creek, and meadows teeming with beautiful wildflowers a photographers dream! To extend your adventure, you can continue on to Isabelle Glacier. These lakes are next to Independence Pass, a road that takes you to Aspen. Some of them thought all of us had hiked into the wilderness to hear their death metal on the boombox at the lake all day. Local Tip: This hike is also near some of the best free camping near Denver. The main mountain attraction is Lone Eagle Peak, which climbers can also ascend. Gray Wolf Reintroduction, What Does 2023 Look Like In Colorado? 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. Cottonwood Lake Not your computer? Discover this alpine wonder by taking Rogers Pass Trail, a 9.1-mile out-and-back trail located near Rollinsville. The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! It's the state's highest peak. Lake of the Clouds brings you tranquil scenery and plenty of views. This strenuous Sky Pond hike leads to one of the most dramatic alpine lakes in Colorado. This is one of the easiest lakes on this list to get to, but is therefore also the most crowded. This 7.7 miles trail boasts a wow factor unlike any other. Banff Sunshine. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. 2. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Overview. The hike to this lake is an additional 0.7 miles from Lower Blue Lake but is very steep, with about 664 ft elevation gain. Lakes at 12,000 feet above sea level may only offer a couple of months of fishing due to the heavy snowfall in Colorado. Keep your eyes peeled for moose hanging out in the bushes or near the waters edge! Success! If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Yes. 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. Nestled in those mountains behind Trout Lake sits Hope Lake. Rollins Pass is in the FunTreks Northern Colorado Backroads 4 Wheel Drive . Loop or Out and Back: Out and Back or Loop. This alpine-lake hike should make every Coloradan's bucket list. accounts, the history behind an article. Bear Lake is a popular lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Come July and August, Lawn Lake is arguably the best lake for fishing in the park. Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links for products and services I recommend. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Marys Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. 1. But on your way there, take moments of rest to appreciate the view of Longs Peak to the south and Tyndall Creek. Youll get glimpses of Longs Peak and Alberta Falls (in the summer). The 14.3-mile out-and-back trail features double the wonders Mirror Lake and Crater Lake. 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. This water adventure features beautiful cascading waterfalls among steep rocky cliffs and lush green pine trees. These incredible, Climb a 3.5-mile trail along an open ridge in the Eagles Nest Wilderness to reach one of the, One option is this challenging all-day hike that involves a bounty of supreme alpine splendor. Distance: 8.56 milesElevation: 2057 ftType: Out-and-back. After seeing Island Lake continue ahead and take a right to form a small loop. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. RELATED: Views are stunning and fish . Distance: 3.77 milesElevation: 722 ftType: Out-and-back. This lake is located in the alpine layer at 11,746 ft and as you get closer to the lake it will get significantly colder and more windy. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. 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. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation: 3,093 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is a well-known spot. 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. 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. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. There was an error processing your request. Long Lake is an alpine explorers paradise. 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. The first lake on this trail is Lower Blue Lake, a clear bright blue lake within the Mount Sneffels Wilderness Area at 10,952 ft elevation. The road will dead end at Moffat Tunnel where you'll find ample parking in a gravel lot with restrooms. Lake Isabelle is located 2.1 miles from the Long Lake Trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. You even get two lakes for the price of one hike. Then recheck it the day before your hike. 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. Accessibility from North Cascades Highway makes it an excellent stop on a road trip through the area. From short day hikes close to the city to multi-day backpacking trips deep in Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Colorado. Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Breathtaking beauty awaits hikers at South Colony Lakes. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Take the dirt road up in elevation as it turns a bit rough closer to the lake. Be Truthful. Another difficult hike for your Colorado bucket list, Mills Lake boasts 11 miles of stunning beauty. 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 The trail features colorful wildflower meadows, breathtaking views, and plenty of wildlife. Descriptions of the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado including distance, difficulty, and elevation gain. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! 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. This trail is popular and can get very crowded, so try to hike it either really early or much later in the day. In the summer, the wildflowers are quite magical. Note that this hike does require permits, so be sure to reserve yours in advance to enjoy this fun summertime waterfall adventure! The Sangre de Cristo mountains offer tranquil scenery without the hustle and bustle of the weekend warrior crowd near Denver. 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. Not many people venture to the mountain ranges down south, so expect lots of solitude. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. Upper Blue Lake is the third lake on Blue Lakes Trail. There are also many opportunities for overnight backcountry adventures at one of the mountain lakes near Denver in James Peak Wilderness. Lake Blanche Trail : An absolute must-see for the aspiring Wasatch adventurer . Be sure to bring your camera and a snack to enjoy at the lake, its really that unbelievable. 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. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). In Colorado's lakes and streams most Cutthroats average 9 to . This moderate trail evokes a classic Colorado Rocky Mountain charm. Once at the lakes, you can go for a swim (so bring a suit!) If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Overall, this is a gentle hike with typical views, well worth the short trip if you are in the area. Most of the Alpine lakes lie in valleys that were formed during the uplift of the mountain chain of the Alps. If you want to stay in town, choose nearby Frantz Lake in Salida or Buena Vista Town Lake in McPhelemy Park. For the ultimate sunrise with majestic mountain peaks as the backdrop, this is just the right adventure. High-clearance vehicles are best suited for getting to this scenic secluded spot. Yep, us too. However, in the winter months, some of the roads to various trailheads arent maintained, and this may add a substantial amount of snowy hiking to your journey. Use the 'Report' link on You'll take the Continental Falls via the Mohawk Lakes trail to the falls.