Directions: From Colorado Springs take Hwy 24 west or, from Woodland Park take Hwy 24 east, to the Pikes Peak Highway exit in Cascade. Evans at 14,265', or you can take the trail less traveled and summit using one of the many official and unofficial routes to the top from the lake. Both lakes are stunning, a gasping traverse through the Indian Peaks Wilderness. 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. The Alpine Loop starts with the historic high-altitude town of Ouray. Its always a good idea, especially on longer, difficult hikes or solo excursions, to let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back. Take the Wheeler trail until it intersects with Crystal Creek Road. Yep, us too. Local Tip: Check out Ouray, one of the most stunning Colorado mountain towns, post-hike! To make this a longer adventure, you can keep the fun going all the way to Bear Lake. When it comes to alpine lakes, Colorado takes the cake and there is no place on earth like Mirror Lake. Distance: 10.6 milesElevation: 2,578 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: To get to this trailhead youll want a high-clearance vehicle. This water adventure features beautiful cascading waterfalls among steep rocky cliffs and lush green pine trees. This route is delicate, so always practice Leave No Trace when visiting. Its still worth a visit, even if you arent climbing. Photo: Ryan DewaneDistance: 8.43 milesElevation: 1780 ftType: Out-and-back. Want a bit more of a challenge? 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. The hike is difficult but is worth the challenge to get to one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, 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. This is one of the most iconic adventures in Colorado and for good reason! This ideal backpacking destination is located just minutes from the mountain town of Aspen. Plenty of camping up there and a dog-friendly area. In fact, this is one of my favorite day hikes near Denver. If you're looking for a secluded adventure, the Mohawk Lakes (upper and lower) are the perfect alpine escape for you. 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. Distance: 6.8 milesElevation: 1,548 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape: Many 14er-enthusiasts camp here overnight before their summit bids. The natural beauty of a waterfall is within easy reach of Denver. (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 . For the best wildflowers, do this hike in late July. Keep in mind permits are required and parking fills up fast. Threats of harming another The Maroon Bells are world renowned for being some of the most breathtaking mountains in the US. 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. You can take a dip at Sprouting Rock in a stunning turquoise oasis found just behind Hanging Lake. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. No dogs. The Alpine Lakes is the largest wilderness area . 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. Did you know that Colorado is home to over 2,000 lakes? Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no . . 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. Youll find over 2,000 alpine lakes in Colorado. Definitely come prepared with a suit to take a dip. And the fish well, they just float on down, once deployed from the airplane. 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. 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. You will encounter a boulder field, so be prepared for occasional scrambling. Photo: Ryan MckinneyDistance: 4.09 milesElevation: 374 ftType: Out-and-back. Technically you can swim at many alpine lakes in Colorado, but you probably dont want to. 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. Cherry Creek Reservoir. If youre looking for short, sweet, and steep with incredible views, Windsor Lake near Leadville is an awesome choice. Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway, Colorado. This popular alpine lake Colorado hike near Vail, Colorado will take you across Pitkin Creek and on an intense, narrow climb up the mountain. 5 hidden lakes in Colorado you probably never knew exsisted Alpine Lake. You're going to want to bring your camera on these adventures. This article will walk you through the best lakes in Colorado and how to get to these lakes. When it comes to the best lake hikes in Colorado, this post has it all. This lake is known for the reflection you can see in the lake of 14,000 ft tall Maroon Peaks. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. Take in all the wondrous sights nature has to offer as you trek your way to Lake Agnes. Also, keep in mind there are restrictions on where you can walk, so be respectful of signs and regulations. Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain views. 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. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Mary's Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Lake Ann - Only accessible by way of a 1.75-mile well-maintained trail, this pristine lake is ruggedly scenic and extremely protected. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Marys. Stay awhile and enjoy the views! Thats right, a hiking trail that features a lake and an abandoned mining town! Adventurous hikers can continue up the glacier just be sure to bring some traction and maybe a hiking pole or two. Ice Lake is a beautiful bright blue alpine lake located at 12,300 feet that requires a very strenuous hike to get to. Take the Glacier Gorge Trail up a steep, winding dramatic valley that terminates at the famed Sky Pond. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. The designation means Spinney is public fishing water that produces a minimum of 12 fish of 14in or more and 60lbs per acre. 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! Backpack to three alpine lakes and an alpine lagoon in Roosevelt National Forest. 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. 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. Note that this hike does require permits, so be sure to reserve yours in advance to enjoy this fun summertime waterfall adventure! This truly-epic alpine lake hike is long, but worth the effort. Wander the lake at sunrise for incredible views. Set in magnificent scenery, they are the focus of considerable settlement and a thriving tourist traffic, as well as of great scientific interest. Please explore responsibly! "With an ample forage base such as scuds, crayfish, terrestrials, aquatic insects these fish can live 10 plus years and grow to very . If you're looking for a large and yet completely natural lake, then Grand Lake is the place to be in Colorado. In the Fall, the Aspen grove comes alive with color, making for an especially memorable experience. 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. To get to the lake, you'll pass through two lakes Dream and Nymph. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. However, dont be fooled by the easy accessibility. You'll take the Continental Falls via the Mohawk Lakes trail to the falls. If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different Lakes? Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 42 min to complete. Anglers should bring fishing gear as there are plenty of opportunities to fish for trout! Miles from Denver: 100 miles. This hike also has a waterfall. 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. Also, dont be an ass, you are not allowed to swim or climb around on the logs here. With that being said, typically alpine lakes are frozen and mostly snow-free starting in July through around mid-October depending on the year. Square Top Lakes, Guanella Pass Square Top Lakes via Shutterstock. Banff Sunshine. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. . Photos (9,863) Directions. Take the dirt road up in elevation as it turns a bit rough closer to the lake. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation: 1,765 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs allowed. 1. In fact, almost every hike in Colorado leads to an alpine lake. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Related: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Like a Local. the most part. In the winter, there is no fee, but the road is closed. Then, continue climbing to blue Lake at the base of Mt. Many of the most amazing lakeside views in the state are easily accessible for beginner hikers. This 7.7 miles trail boasts a wow factor unlike any other. Though close in proximity to Maroon Lake, Crater Lake is a less crowded destination, yet still unbelievably scenic. This robust trail near Copper travels through sculpted canyons, pine forests, and open meadows as it ascends 3 vigorous miles to a pair of pristine, Don't let this demanding 10 mile hike intimidate you, because this glistening chain of alpine lakes nestled beneath Red Peak on North Willow Creek, is an unforgettable experience everyone should enjoy. In fact, this is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. No dogs. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. This trail is popular and can get very crowded, so try to hike it either really early or much later in the day. Something that absolutely should be on your list of things to do with kids in Colorado! Emerald Lake is located in Rocky Mountain National Park, and is reached by hiking from Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Photo: Nicola EasterbyDistance: 3.06 milesElevation: 1168 ftType: Out-and-back. Alta Lakes whip up an alpine lake hike with a twist. 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. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please note, reservations may be required to visit the park. Be sure to check the weather before beginning this adventure as summer thunderstorms in this area can be aggressive. Here are 11 of the best swimming holes in Colorado, from pristine lakes to reservoirs, waterfall pools, and everything in between. If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! Mohawk Lakes offer plenty of picture-perfect backcountry camping or opportunities to summit nearby mountains, such as Father Dyer. The trail is located near Glenwood Springs, offering the perfect post-adventure spot. Dogs are welcome, but due to the crowds, keep Fido leashed. Arizona has many unique hiking opportunities with a wide range of elevation, climate, and views. These high-altitude lakes are typically much clearer than their low elevation counterparts and are often fed directly by snowmelt. It looked like a decent hike that led to such a clean and . You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Yes. The trail starts off steep, dropping into a valley before running flat, then climbing steeply up again. The trail flattens out at the basin below Columbine Lake and once you arrive you're in for a real treat. Resting beautifully at an elevation of 9,003 feet. If youre lucky, youll get a perfect reflection of these towering peaks against the lake. 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.' Camping here is sure to be an awe-filled experience. High-clearance vehicles are best suited for getting to this scenic secluded spot. Colorado will soon see moisture from what was Hurricane Nora and flash flood watches are already in effect for parts of the state. There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. 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. 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. Green Mountain Reservoir. Your email address will not be published. Some hikes, like, Sedona is one of the most amazing places to hike and enjoy the beautiful nature. If you are a fan of high alpine lakes without having to travel far . Dog-friendly. Harder To Reach: Lawn Lake. Did your favorite make it to our list of most beautiful lakes near Denver? But beyond those details, Colorado is one of the few states where you can legally marry yourselves! 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. Evans and Mt. Check out three different alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness with the Crater Lakes Trail. Directions SUV recommended: From the Town of Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (Route 135) north a total of 12.6 miles. They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. Blue Lakes Basin is a must for explorers of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness. Each of these alpine lake hikes brings you the best of the Rocky Mountains and picturesque mountain scenery of places like Leadville. Distance: 8.56 milesElevation: 2057 ftType: Out-and-back. Exploring the wilds of Denver, Colorado, and beyond. . 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. With so many lake hikes, Colorado will have your hiking itinerary booked for years! The cherry on top is a chance at landing a fish of a lifetime. Photo Credit: Jose A Feliciano Cestero (iStock). Camp at Twin Lakes White Star Campground. 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 . Start on the Glacier Gorge Trail (like you would for Sky Pond) except veer left at the fork. Most of the Alpine lakes lie in valleys that were formed during the uplift of the mountain chain of the Alps. Once you get to the lake, focus on the right shoreline, where there is a great drop off for fish to hang out around. Here are the lessons I have learned! Starting at 10,390 elevation and reaching 12,000 this hike has it all. Named for its stunning waters, Emerald Lake is overflowing with beauty. Expect to see wildlife like moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or elk along the trail, especially in the late spring and early summer. Another difficult hike for your Colorado bucket list, Mills Lake boasts 11 miles of stunning beauty. If you are looking for something a little easier to get to, try James Peak Wilderness. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. 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. 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. The best time to do this hike is early in the morning for sunrise you wont be mad you did! 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. Length 6.7 miElevation gain 1,699 ftRoute type Out & back. This short 6.5-mile round-trip trail boasts picturesque alpine lakes and stunning views of Pfeifferhorn. Length: 7.9 mi Est. Distance: 3.97 milesElevation: 1299 ftType: Out-and-back. Trek beyond the lakes to reach the 14,065-foot summit of Humboldt Peak. Give them instructions about who to call if they dont hear from you. Cutthroats were originally named by William Clark on the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition. 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. There is plenty of fishing, swimming, camping, and even small, easy hiking trails that provide plenty of family fun. 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. This trail is well-used but has an interesting start as you make your way up next to and around a huge railway tunnel. She'd rather be dirty than done up. 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. In winter the trail may be impossible without ice climbing gear. The best time to visit is between June and October. Its best to check with AllTrails.com or even local hiking Facebook groups to get the most up-to-date information. 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. Everyone knows about Hanging Lake, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. But on your way there, take moments of rest to appreciate the view of Longs Peak to the south and Tyndall Creek. The total hike round trip to Middle Blue Lake is 7.6 miles with 2,292 ft elevation gain. Among the lakes stocked on Monday, the highest of them - Ptarmigan Lake in Gunnison County - sits at 12,306 feet. Rocky Mountain National Park is a hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies. Surrounding peaks of granite reflect off the lake's beautiful emerald green waters nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park. Check with the Castle Mountain Recreation Company for more up-to-date information. 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. Cherry Creek Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado offers a treasure trove of outdoor activities for the whole family. You'll take the Mitchell Lake Trail, crossing Mitchell Creek and passing Mitchell Lake along the way. The 6.3-mile hike takes 2.5-3 hours, and the elevation gain is very gradual for. If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. The trail is short and packed with beauty, about 2-miles out-and-back. For an added challenge and extra mileage, you can even summit Longs Peak for an elevated vantage point! Use a private browsing window to sign in. Photographers will appreciate the remarkable sunrise and night shot opportunities. Are there any waterfalls I can visit near Denver? Grand Lake. Youll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. 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. or anything. Lake of the Clouds brings you tranquil scenery and plenty of views. Its always important to pack the Ten Essentials in a small backpack. Before reaching Heart Lake, be sure to soak in the alpine views first at Rogers Lake. Make sure to pay attention to trail signs and take a GPS, there are a lot of intersecting trails in the area. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox. Almost countless. Before you hit the trail, there are several important things to remember. This list of the 16 top destinations in the Southwest US will, Your email address will not be published. Youll need high clearance to get to the upper lot. Those launching float tubes and canoes will appreciate being able to drive within spitting distance of the many lakes and small . Another worthwhile alpine lake hike near Breckenridge is Crystal Lake, which gives the ultimate solitude and scenery double punch. Located near Idaho Springs, St. Mary's Glacier is known for its alpine lake and, you guessed it, glacier. Distance: 6.74 milesElevation: 2464 ftType: Out-and-back. Nestled at 7,323 feet, the trail leading to the lake is short but relatively steep, gaining more than a thousand feet in elevation. Distance: 8.02 milesElevation: 2500 ftType: Out-and-back. Keep it Clean. #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. Not many people venture to the mountain ranges down south, so expect lots of solitude. You'll find Continental Falls in the White River National Forest near Breckenridge. 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. Length: 63 miles. This helps you beat those pesky thunderstorms and stay safe. The wildflower lined trail is short and beautiful, clocking in at 2.1 miles round trip. To see the entire lake though, youll need to do a bit of climbing up the shore. Which lake near Denver has the bluest water? 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 trail itself is moderately wooded. If you do opt to swim, dont wear any sunscreen. Another iconic alpine lake hike in Colorado, Ice Lake brings you unbelievable brilliant blue waters. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! You'll take the Continental Falls via the Mohawk Lakes trail to the falls. We'd love to hear eyewitness Dream Lake is a high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located east of the continental divide in northern Colorado. Although Gore Lake looks reasonable on paper, this is a tough hike, with much of the elevation gained in the last couple of miles. 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. 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. Its a total bonus if you hit this trail early and arrive for the sunrise! UPPER & LOWER BUSHNELL LAKES. Be cautious, however, as thunderstorms are quite common in the summertime. 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. Photo by Kyle Jenkins. The byway provides many scenic overlooks to view each of these Colorado beauties. 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. The middle and upper are said to have the best views. Twin Lakes Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. To extend your adventure, you can continue on to Isabelle Glacier. Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. This adventure takes you through a well-marked trail with fantastic mountain views.