Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Unfortunately, in the summer it can get hot with temperatures, The American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that cannot be missed. The fishing season for these high alpine lakes in Colorado is relatively short. The total hike round trip to Upper Blue Lake is 8 miles with 2,404 ft elevation gain. For dramatic views of Longs Peak and the iconic Diamond headwall, head up to Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Each of these alpine lake hikes brings you the best of the Rocky Mountains and picturesque mountain scenery of places like Leadville. Distance: 11.32 milesElevation: 2375 ftType: Out-and-back. This rather large lake is surrounded by pines with a dramatic mountain background. The trail also features both forests and meadows budding with an abundance of wildflowers interspersed along the way. Doggies welcome. Directions: From Colorado Springs take Hwy 24 west or, from Woodland Park take Hwy 24 east, to the Pikes Peak Highway exit in Cascade. As one of the best lake hikes in Colorado, this strenuous 12-plus mile hike is best done in two days. This article will walk you through the best lakes in Colorado and how to get to these lakes. This picturesque adventure boasts breathtaking mountain scenery. 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. Most of these lakes are accessible by foot only, although you can also drive to quite a few of them. 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. Gore Lake. Nestled in Roosevelt National Forest, you can set foot on this adventure to three alpine lakes and a lagoon with the opportunity to pass by splendid waterfalls and wildflowers. Winter enthusiasts can snowshoe the two to three miles up to the yurt and then onwards 2.5 miles to the lake where they can enjoy one of the most unique weekend trips from Denver. Make it a day by going on one of Colorados most scenic drives! Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, the trail to access starts off at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. This trail is well-used but has an interesting start as you make your way up next to and around a huge railway tunnel. The trail features colorful wildflower meadows, breathtaking views, and plenty of wildlife. This ideal backpacking destination is located just minutes from the mountain town of Aspen. In the Fall, the Aspen grove comes alive with color, making for an especially memorable experience. Not your computer? The Alpine Loop leaves pavement and people behind, crossing the remote, rugged, spectacular heart of the San Juan Mountains. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Marys Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. 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). Moderate (difficult in winter) 2.4-mile out-and-back. Primarily characterized as an alpine tundra region, its total distance is approximately 65 miles and can be completed in about 7 hours (or more), typically under normal circumstances. However, this is one gorgeous hike, especially during the wildflower season. From Bear Lake Trailhead it is about 4.2 miles roundtrip with 840 ft elevation gain. There are few hidden gems better to explore in the mountainous state of Colorado than the high alpine waters. Stay awhile and enjoy the views! Miles from Denver: 100 miles. Awesome views, wildlife, lakes and wild flowers await you on this lollipop loop ride. Which lake near Denver has the bluest water? For an added challenge and extra mileage, you can even summit Longs Peak for an elevated vantage point! Distance: 5.24 milesElevation: 940 ftType: Out-and-back. This is one of the most iconic adventures in Colorado and for good reason! In layman's terms, they are the state's finest fisheries. 8 to 4 miles Round TripElevation: Depends. Aside from the deep blues waters, hikers are delighted with wildflower-filled meadows bordering the lakes in bright and beautiful colors. If you already made it to Middle Blue Lake it is a quick 0.2 mile walk to Upper Blue Lake. This strenuous Sky Pond hike leads to one of the most dramatic alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. Theres no shortage of fantastic mountain and lake views. The United States Should Adopt The Allemannsretten, 5 Great Spots in Colorado for Fall Colors. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. The trail flattens out at the basin below Columbine Lake and once you arrive you're in for a real treat. It's Denver's highest mountain park and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1965. Alpine lakes, old cabins, creek crossings, summer wildflowers, a stupendous waterfall, and unimaginable views. Insanely Beautiful Colorado Lakes to Dip Your Toes in This Summer Along the way, catch sight of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. If you do opt to swim, dont wear any sunscreen. 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. Take the dirt road up in elevation as it turns a bit rough closer to the lake. Keep moving forward and the trail will switch back and then head up the mountain. Sandbeach Lake has a wide sandy shore thats perfect for picnicking or simply sitting to take in the scenery. 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. Nestled at 7,323 feet, the trail leading to the lake is short but relatively steep, gaining more than a thousand feet in elevation. The winding hike leads you past dreamy fields of wildflowers before reaching the sparkling aqua the area is known for. This area is also an awesome place to practice mountaineering skills or go for a mid-summer ski session. The Alpine Loop starts with the historic high-altitude town of Ouray. The best time to visit is between June and October. This adventure takes you through a well-marked trail with fantastic mountain views. Editor's Note:Access to some of these lakes can vary due to a number of factors, including time of year. Twin Lakes are two beautiful lakes located at the base of Mount Elbert, the tallest peak in Colorado. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a large wilderness area spanning the Central Cascades of Washington state in the United States.The wilderness is located in parts of Wenatchee National Forest and Snoqualmie National Forest, and is approximately bounded by Interstate 90 and Snoqualmie Pass to the south and U.S. Route 2 and Stevens Pass to the north. Colorado's Alpine Loop is affectionately called the " Switzerland of America" for a reason! Does Sky Pond sound too intense? Our first date was a three-day camping trip on the backroads of Colorado. Alpine Lake Fishing - Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado Vacation Eloping in Colorado gives you access to epic views of 15 mountain ranges, 54 peaks over 10,000 feet, alpine lakes, meadows of wildflowers, and a vast variety of gorgeous backdrops. The byway provides many scenic overlooks to view each of these Colorado beauties. Located in gorgeous Glenwood Canyon, the drive to the trailhead is reason . Welcome to Fish-Full Colorado: A Guide to Fly Fishing in Colorado - Curated 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. North Slope Recreation Area | Colorado Springs Capping out at 12,183 feet in elevation, at its summit, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous road in the country. The deep blue waters of the Ice Lakes will leave you in awe. Colorado has many picturesque lakes surrounded by high peaks. Fall is a great time to visit for the changing aspens, but if you love wildflowers, consider a late-spring to summer visit. Rocky Mountain National Park is just under a two-hour drive from Denver and an hour's drive from Boulder. Required fields are marked *. Talk about iconic Colorado views! This helps you beat those pesky thunderstorms and stay safe. And the fish well, they just float on down, once deployed from the airplane. Photos (9,863) Directions. Dream Lake is a high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located east of the continental divide in northern Colorado. Camping is permitted and free around Alta Lakes in Telluride with campsites littered all around the three lakes. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. You could spend a lifetime trying to see all of the alpine lakes in Colorado and just barely scratch the surface. Photo Credit: Jose A Feliciano Cestero (iStock). Also, dont be an ass, you are not allowed to swim or climb around on the logs here. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. On July 21st, 2020, Skip, Bandit, Ezra, and I made our way from Colorado Springs, where we were visiting, up through Wyoming and Montana into Northern Idaho to visit family before heading back to Southern Idaho for work and school. The best time to do this hike is early in the morning for sunrise you wont be mad you did! Nestled in those mountains behind Trout Lake sits Hope Lake. Visitors to the lake have the option to rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard. Alpine Loop Byway - Lake City-Ouray-Silverton - Uncover Colorado In winter the trail may be impossible without ice climbing gear. Think you need to be a hiking pro to enjoy amazing alpine lake hikes in Colorado? from 119 at Rollinsville, drive about 8 miles down the dirt road along South Boulder Creek. Mohawk Lakes Trail is one of Colorado's best day hikes. Fish a high lake near Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado 5 hidden lakes in Colorado you probably never knew exsisted Alpine Lake. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. Black lake is a stunning and dramatic lake nestled deep in Rocky Mountain National Park. Snow Lake Trail | Map, Guide - Washington | AllTrails Gray Wolf Reintroduction, What Does 2023 Look Like In Colorado? Mohawk Lakes offer plenty of picture-perfect backcountry camping or opportunities to summit nearby mountains, such as Father Dyer. To make this a longer adventure, you can keep the fun going all the way to Bear Lake. Must Visit Stunning Lakes in Colorado | Insider Families There are also many opportunities for overnight backcountry adventures at one of the mountain lakes near Denver in James Peak Wilderness. However, dont be fooled by the easy accessibility. The trail is located near Glenwood Springs, offering the perfect post-adventure spot. If you love the wildflowers, don't miss the serene trek into Eagles Nest Wilderness to Gore Lake. Photo: Nicola EasterbyDistance: 3.06 milesElevation: 1168 ftType: Out-and-back. Though close in proximity to Maroon Lake, Crater Lake is a less crowded destination, yet still unbelievably scenic. For the ultimate sunrise with majestic mountain peaks as the backdrop, this is just the right adventure. Photo: Ryan DewaneDistance: 8.43 milesElevation: 1780 ftType: Out-and-back. It is nestled between the towns of Ridgway and Telluride. Distance: 10.5 milesElevation: 2,975 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Parking is limited so consider taking the free bus from the Vail Village parking structure to the trailhead. These gorgeous alpine lakes are set in a landscape that appears to be straight from a storybook, but is actually known as the James Peak wilderness. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain | Colorado Springs The hike to lower blue lake is 6 miles round trip with 1,610 ft elevation gain. Youll be gasping for air from the steep inclines and incredible scenes. There is no shortage of beautiful lakes near Denver, and there are several with magnificently blue water. Loop or Out and Back: Out and Back or Loop. By: They have recently been working in that area, so check with the Forest Service for recent conditions. There was an error processing your request. Length: 63 miles. Distance: 2.93 milesElevation: 675 ftType: Loop. The Top 10 Lakes Near Telluride To Visit Lodging In Telluride Photo Credit: The Gazette, Christian Murdock. Keep in mind that State Forest State Park requires a fee. They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. . Yep, us too. Seriouslyover 2,000! 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. 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. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. The mountains of southern Colorado are littered with alpine lake hikes. 11 Alpine Lakes That Are Well Worth The Hike (And 1 Lake That You Can This includes water, snacks, sun protection, extra layers, and more. Access: Transit to Trails is a great option for these hikes! Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Mary's Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Lake Isabelle. Keep your eyes peeled for moose hanging out in the bushes or near the waters edge! The video showcases the beauty of Colorado's high country. If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Give them instructions about who to call if they dont hear from you. Cherry Creek Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado offers a treasure trove of outdoor activities for the whole family. 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. Dream Lake is a vision right out of a fairy tale in the early morning hours. You could also do a loop and combine this lake with Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Haiyaha. 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. Start at the main trailhead and wander up either Crystal Creek Road (the uphill ramp on your right if youre looking at the end of the lot) or continue straight past the lot to the upper lot (about a 5-car pull out) where the road intersects the Wheeler Trail. 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 . Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. Check out this adventure for impressive views of the Mount Evans Wilderness. Distance: 5.53 milesElevation: 1056 ftType: Out-and-back. Beware of moose in this area, they are everywhere and not afraid to charge! To see views of Lower Blue Lake from above you need to continue hiking up the steep Blue Lakes Trial towards Middle Blue Lake. There are three lakes in the basin. These Colorado lake hikes deliver a bit more of a challenge, but that just makes the reward that much sweeter. Sprague Lake is one of the most easily accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. At this time, the 44 road to Blue Lakes requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to access when the gate is open during summer months (often late May through October), but there is talk . San Juan National Forest. The views along the way to these four alpine lakes do not disappoint. Distance: 14.94 milesElevation: 2421 ftType: Out-and-back. Local Tip: This hike is also near some of the best free camping near Denver. This alpine-lake hike should make every Coloradan's bucket list. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. Check with the Castle Mountain Recreation Company for more up-to-date information. If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different 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. In the summer, the trail becomes a 44 road that you can still hike on, terminating at a parking lot. Since it's a relatively short hike, this is a great one for a family nature outing. Many of Colorado's high lakes are found in roadless or wilderness areas. Fly Fishing for Cutthroat Trout in Colorado - Vail Valley Anglers Best Day Hikes in Park City | Hiking & Outdoor Recreation 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. Starting at 10,390 elevation and reaching 12,000 this hike has it all. Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado | Colorado.com Jewel Lake is accessible by a three-mile hike and Clear Lake requires an eight-mile hike to get to. 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. 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. 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. The freshwater lake is the perfect spot for boating or fishing. Rollins Pass is in the FunTreks Northern Colorado Backroads 4 Wheel Drive . Share with Us. Photo: Ryan MckinneyDistance: 4.09 milesElevation: 374 ftType: Out-and-back. You're going to want to bring your camera on these adventures. The designation means Spinney is public fishing water that produces a minimum of 12 fish of 14in or more and 60lbs per acre. 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. These high-altitude lakes are typically much clearer than their low elevation counterparts and are often fed directly by snowmelt. If you're looking for a secluded adventure, the Mohawk Lakes (upper and lower) are the perfect alpine escape for you. Be sure to bring your camera and a snack to enjoy at the lake, its really that unbelievable. Alpine Lakes Wilderness - Wikipedia all along the way to the 14,115 foot summit of America's most . In terms of the best lake hikes, Colorado offers some incredibly unique lakes and the Hanging Lake hike takes the cake. Snow Lake Trail. Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). It can be hard to narrow down which hikes, Colorado is a beautiful state with tall peaks, incredible lakes, and four unique national parks. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. Extend your time at this magnificent spot and camp at one of the campsites found around both lakes. This is the most beautiful lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, and can be combined with Bear Lake and Emerald Lake. Get going on this adventure to the three beautiful Blue Lakes nestled among Colorados San Juan Range in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Blue Lakes Trail in Colorado is an easy daytime hike that features expansive alpine landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters. Getting caught in a lightning storm at altitude is dangerous, it kills people every year, so be sure to check the weather and plan appropriately. Distance: 3.77 milesElevation: 722 ftType: Out-and-back. Not to mention, the lake bottom is often rocky and very slippery. It sits at an elevation of 11,860 ft with no distinguishing trail between the lower and upper lake. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. Please explore responsibly! Yes. UPPER & LOWER BUSHNELL LAKES. If you're up for the challenge, Kit Carson and Challenger Point can also be accessed along this trail. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation: 1,765 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs allowed. The cold water is characteristic of alpine lakes. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Fly Fishing Alpine Lakes for Remote Monsters - Fly Fisherman Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls.
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