colorado alpine lakes you can drive to

In order to avoid storms at high altitude, youll want to start your hike EARLY, sometimes before the sun rises, depending on the length of the hike. But what if I told you we havent been given access to over half of whats really out there? Spalding. Directions SUV recommended: From the Town of Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (Route 135) north a total of 12.6 miles. In the south you can find Saguaro National Park and, Colorado is full of incredible hiking trails that take you to breathtaking views, waterfalls, and lakes. This is a busy area, but for good reason, the views are delicious! Many of Colorado's high lakes are found in roadless or wilderness areas. Best Lakeside Elopement Locations in the US - Skyewater Photo Most of the Alpine lakes lie in valleys that were formed during the uplift of the mountain chain of the Alps. Distance: 2.93 milesElevation: 675 ftType: Loop. After seeing Island Lake continue ahead and take a right to form a small loop. This includes water, snacks, sun protection, extra layers, and more. 30 Alpine Lakes You Should Visit This Summer | Outdoor Project Many of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado are alpine lakes with clear blue water. . The Top 10 Lakes Near Telluride To Visit Lodging In Telluride 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. This rather large lake is surrounded by pines with a dramatic mountain background. Bierstadt Lake is a Rocky Mountain National Park gem. Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. . To extend your adventure, you can continue on to Isabelle Glacier. Your email address will not be published. Come and try out the great hiking and mountain biking trails too! Camping is permitted and free around Alta Lakes in Telluride with campsites littered all around the three lakes. Bushnell lakes sit under Bushnell Peak and SE of Stout Lakes drainage. 1. Distance: 3.97 milesElevation: 1299 ftType: Out-and-back. Dont forget to turn left at the graves or youll pass right by the final push to Gore Lake! The Sangre de Cristo mountains offer tranquil scenery without the hustle and bustle of the weekend warrior crowd near Denver. Eventually, you will come across a meadow and can continue up the far side of the mountain, through a dense evergreen forest. Along the way, catch sight of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. As one of the best lake hikes in Colorado, this strenuous 12-plus mile hike is best done in two days. Camping here is sure to be an awe-filled experience. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy spanning alpine lake views. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. Aside from the deep blues waters, hikers are delighted with wildflower-filled meadows bordering the lakes in bright and beautiful colors. The best time to visit is between June and October. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation: 2,373 feetDifficulty: A difficult day hike or a moderate overnight backpackRed Tape and Local Tips: Permits are required for backpacking from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Kevin BuggieBPL Member. You'll find San Cristobal incredibly stunning. Youll need high clearance to get to the upper lot. This trail is popular and can get very crowded, so try to hike it either really early or much later in the day. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Marys. 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. Recommended Fly Assortment for Colorado Alpine Creeks and Lakes 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 water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! Granite spires surrounding the lake, one referred to as sharks tooth. There are also two 13,000-foot peaks nearby, Taylor and Powell. It is nestled between the towns of Ridgway and Telluride. However, this is one gorgeous hike, especially during the wildflower season. 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. You'll take the Mitchell Lake Trail, crossing Mitchell Creek and passing Mitchell Lake along the way. And dont forget to look out for mountain goats! Elevation Gain: 465 feet. Descriptions of the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado including distance, difficulty, and elevation gain. 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. Early July 2020 My first trip to the beautiful remote Sand Creek Lakes high above the Wet Mountain Valley in Colorado was in 2017, a year of the big runoff. Here are the lessons I have learned! Youll be gasping for air from the steep inclines and incredible scenes. Hike to Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha Lakes, 25. 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. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Snow Lake Trail | Map, Guide - Washington | AllTrails #16 Yellow Stimulator (covers your basic attractors, caddis, hoppers, and strike indicator for the nymph) #16 Parachute Adams (Covers mayflys, and everything else small and floating) 6 of each should fit in a tiny container and keep you fishing for a week. 11. Bierstadt, and even Denver at times. You could spend a lifetime trying to see all of the alpine lakes in Colorado and just barely scratch the surface. This trail is well-used but has an interesting start as you make your way up next to and around a huge railway tunnel. Those launching float tubes and canoes will appreciate being able to drive within spitting distance of the many lakes and small . 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. 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 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. Thousands of fish dropped from plane into Colorado alpine lakes 11 Best Lakes Near Denver To Visit This Summer - OnlyInYourState Distance: 0.8 milesElevation: 32 feetDifficulty: Easy with accessibility rampsRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Arrive early to get a spot and spend more of the day exploring! Dream Lake is a high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located east of the continental divide in northern Colorado. Miles from Denver: 100 miles. the most part. The drive from Crested Butte to Paonia passes West Beckwith Mountain, the best spot in the state to view foliage. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado This area is also an awesome place to practice mountaineering skills or go for a mid-summer ski session. Then, continue climbing to blue Lake at the base of Mt. Best time for Alpine Loop Scenic Byway in Colorado 2023 - Rove.me Crested Butte Trails: Emerald Lake Getting to American Lake requires a steep 6 mile round trip hike with 2,000 ft elevation gain. Wildflowers are at their peak in July and early August, by late August, the high alpine environment begins to brown, and temperatures drop substantially overnight. More Information 2. The video showcases the beauty of Colorado's high country. 6 Amazing Hidden Lakes in Colorado You Probably Never Knew Existed 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. This is a do-able day hike, but there are spots for camping if you want to stay overnight. Twin Lakes Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. 8 to 4 miles Round TripElevation: Depends. Sharp granite cliffs rise straight out of the water as you gaze upon views of Longs Peak in the distance. This adventure will bring you by wide open meadows and plenty of wildlife (look out for moose and elk!) Local Tip: Check out Ouray, one of the most stunning Colorado mountain towns, post-hike! These high-altitude lakes are typically much clearer than their low elevation counterparts and are often fed directly by snowmelt. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. However, with that being said, its still worth a visit to gaze upon this magical fairytale lake. Take in all the wondrous sights nature has to offer as you trek your way to Lake Agnes. Photo: Abby VohaskaDistance: 8.81 miles Elevation: 2635 ftType: Out-and-back. There are hiking trails near the lakes with great views of the lakes and surrounding mountains. It's about a 3-mile trek out-and-back. The trail is about 6.8 miles round trip to Ice Lake with 2,457 ft elevation gain. Take a Scenic Drive Through Rocky Mountain National Park Start on the Glacier Gorge Trail (like you would for Sky Pond) except veer left at the fork. 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. 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. Dogs welcome. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! Articles by Heather Brinkman's Profile | Daily Camera, Longmont Times Overview. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. By: The trail is short and packed with beauty, about 2-miles out-and-back. The trail features colorful wildflower meadows, breathtaking views, and plenty of wildlife. Arizona has many unique hiking opportunities with a wide range of elevation, climate, and views. before arriving at the lake, where goof fishing has been reported. 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 . Catch dramatic views of the Sharkstooth and Taylor Peak. We'd love to hear eyewitness Gore Lake. In fact, almost every hike in Colorado leads to an alpine lake. But on your way there, take moments of rest to appreciate the view of Longs Peak to the south and Tyndall Creek. Dog-Friendly: Bloods Lake - No, Lake Lackawaxen - Yes. Breathe in the fresh air and set up a hammock to enjoy the most incredible mountain and alpine lake backdrop. You'll find this alpine gem located near Nederland. 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. Sculpted by the forces of volcanoes, glaciers, wind, and rain, the resulting mountains, valleys, streams, and lakes are a masterpiece of nature's artistry. If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! This picturesque adventure boasts breathtaking mountain scenery. 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. You could also do a loop and combine this lake with Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Haiyaha. 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. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. There's a reason Maroon Lake is arguably the most photographed lake in the state. Heart Lake is another great option for backpackers. Resting beautifully at an elevation of 9,003 feet. Located in gorgeous Glenwood Canyon, the drive to the trailhead is reason . For the best wildflowers, do this hike in late July. No dogs. The winding hike leads you past dreamy fields of wildflowers before reaching the sparkling aqua the area is known for. Photo: Ryan MckinneyDistance: 4.09 milesElevation: 374 ftType: Out-and-back. 10 Alpine Hikes To Tackle Before the Snow Flies - 303 Magazine 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. Long Lake is an alpine explorers paradise. Want a bit more of a challenge? Also, keep in mind there are restrictions on where you can walk, so be respectful of signs and regulations. Beware of moose in this area, they are everywhere and not afraid to charge! Fly Fishing for Cutthroat Trout in Colorado - Vail Valley Anglers In fact, this is one of my favorite day hikes near Denver. Theres no shortage of fantastic mountain and lake views. Alpine Loop. 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. You'd better allow 7 hours to fully enjoy the scenic beauty, however. Lush alpine scenery unfolds as you ascend the 8.1-mile out-and-back trail nestled in the San Juan National Forest near Silverton. Named for its stunning waters, Emerald Lake is overflowing with beauty. 10 Scenic Mountain Passes in Colorado - Uncover Colorado Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain views. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Did you know that Colorado is home to over 2,000 lakes? The picturesque lakes are tucked away near the mountains of Breckenridge. 1. Check the weather. Snow Lake Trail. In the Fall, the Aspen grove comes alive with color, making for an especially memorable experience. Alpine Loop Byway - Lake City-Ouray-Silverton - Uncover Colorado Alpine lakes are defined by being any lake that sits above 10,000 feet above sea level. Youll likely want to stay overnight to prolong your time in this picturesque environment, but do note that permits are required for campers. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. Don't knowingly lie about anyone This hike also has a waterfall. The trail will end with a gorgeous view of Pitkin Lake. Alpine lake help, I know this is a long shot! : ) - FishExplorer Embark on an adventure at Pitkin Lake. Are there any waterfalls I can visit near Denver? Start from the Bear Lake parking lot and hike the gentle trail towards Lake Haiyaha, passing through the alluring Emerald Lake. Aside from craggy peaks, youll also see wildflowers springing from the ground all along the banks of the lakes during summer. 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.' 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. Forsythe Canyon Round-trip Distance: 2.2 miles Trailhead: Forsythe Canyon - Lincoln National Forest Difficulty: Easy This short hike starts just outside of Boulder. 15 Secret Colorado Lakes and Waterfalls to Discover this Summer Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). Its nine miles round trip, gaining about 1,780 feet of elevation. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Distance: 8.62 milesElevation: 2113 ftType: Out-and-back. 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. Up for a challenge? Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Did your favorite make it to our list of most beautiful lakes near Denver? Not to mention, the lake bottom is often rocky and very slippery. 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). Bear Lake is a popular lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Adventurous hikers can continue up the glacier just be sure to bring some traction and maybe a hiking pole or two. The middle and upper are said to have the best views. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Mary's Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links for products and services I recommend. All photos (263) This hike can be done in a near-15-mile day over moderate terrain, or you can obtain a permit to backpack and camp right near the lake. Print/PDF map. Lake Isabelle is located 2.1 miles from the Long Lake Trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Success! Cottonwood Lake Maybird Lakes : Maybird Gulch is a rugged piece of the Lone Peak Wilderness in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Youll get glimpses of Longs Peak and Alberta Falls (in the summer). Its my favorite backpacking route in Colorado and well-worth an overnight. 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. Not many people venture to the mountain ranges down south, so expect lots of solitude. Many of the most amazing lakeside views in the state are easily accessible for beginner hikers. There are other great trout reservoirs in the area, but only Spinney is a Gold Medal water. Distance: 11 milesElevation: 2,529 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Youll cross a couple of creeks so be sure to have the appropriate footwear on. If you love the wildflowers, don't miss the serene trek into Eagles Nest Wilderness to Gore Lake. The trail will take you through both wildflower-filled meadows and forest. Parking is $5 at the Summit Lake parking lot. Anglers should bring fishing gear as there are plenty of opportunities to fish for trout! This article will walk you through the best lakes in Colorado and how to get to these lakes. Banff Sunshine. After turning on to Co. 16 (Tolland Rd.) Exploring the wilds of Denver, Colorado, and beyond. Distance: 6.5 milesElevation: 2,362 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and local tips: Pssst, there are a lot of nearby small lakes and areas to explore here. This strenuous Sky Pond hike leads to one of the most dramatic alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. 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. You have permission to edit this collection. Since the trail to get to Ice Lake is steep and long you should make sure to wear hiking boots. In winter, you will have to take a walk-around to avoid avalanche terrain so be alert. 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.' Both alpine lakes sit at an elevation of about 11,000 feet. Share with Us. It's a 1.8-mile trek (3.6 miles round trip). Alpine Loop National Backcountry Byway, Colorado The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. If you already made it to Middle Blue Lake it is a quick 0.2 mile walk to Upper Blue Lake. Washington's Best Lakes | Outdoor Project Distance: 5.33 milesElevation: 1322 ftType: Out-and-back. As a consequence, by mid-June I Best Day Hikes in Park City | Hiking & Outdoor Recreation Bloods Lake and Lackawaxen Trail. What does 2023 look like for gray wolf reintroduction? Distance: 8.02 milesElevation: 2500 ftType: Out-and-back. 10 "Drive-to" Lakes and Reservoirs in Colorado There was an error processing your request. The Maroon Bells are world renowned for being some of the most breathtaking mountains in the US. Distance: 6.92 milesElevation: 1804 ftType: Out-and-back. For an added challenge and extra mileage, you can even summit Longs Peak for an elevated vantage point! In winter the trail may be impossible without ice climbing gear. However, the serenity of the lakes is well worth the butt-busting effort. 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. Length: 63 miles. At these lakes you can canoe, kayak, and paddle board. Distance: 11.32 milesElevation: 2375 ftType: Out-and-back. Distance: 2.8 miles round trip. Black lake is a stunning and dramatic lake nestled deep in Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: 12.5 milesElevation: 2,890 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This mountain range holds snow well into July, so be prepared for a few patches of snow, even in late summer. The trail also features both forests and meadows budding with an abundance of wildflowers interspersed along the way. Colorado will soon see moisture from what was Hurricane Nora and flash flood watches are already in effect for parts of the state. When it comes to the best lake hikes in Colorado, this post has it all. that is degrading to another person. 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. Upper Blue Lake is the third lake on Blue Lakes Trail. Nineteen of the 24 lakes shown in the video sit above 10,000 feet in elevation. 1. Located in the San Juan Mountains, the lake also attracts a variety of wildlife including elk and moose. Description. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no . Parking early in the morning is free at the Bear Lake Trailhead. 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.' At 13,420 feet, Pacific Tarn is the highest alpine lake in the United States, and you can have it all to yourself. The lake is an additional 2-ish miles from the parking area. Distance: 23.8 milesElevation: 4,767 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are welcome to use this trail. 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. Colorado's Alpine Loop is affectionately called the " Switzerland of America" for a reason! If you're looking for a secluded adventure, the Mohawk Lakes (upper and lower) are the perfect alpine escape for you. Yes. The best lakes in Colorado often require hard hikes to get to but that also means that you can enjoy them with less people. Set in magnificent scenery, they are the focus of considerable settlement and a thriving tourist traffic, as well as of great scientific interest. Bring your camera and pack some tasty snacks! The trail flattens out at the basin below Columbine Lake and once you arrive you're in for a real treat. If you do this hike in the winter, youll experience different scenery, but surely just as stunning. This lake is in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. Its a total bonus if you hit this trail early and arrive for the sunrise! To the left, you can see the dramatic ridgeline called Keyboard of the Winds. Cherry Creek Reservoir. 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. 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.