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 are required to visit the park. Where can I camp next to a lake near Denver? 31 Amazing Alpine Lakes in Colorado to See in 2023 + Local Tips Use a private browsing window to sign in. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. To get to lake and back, you're looking at an 8.2-mile trek located near Crestone. Upper Blue Lake is the third lake on Blue Lakes Trail. Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism Yes. To see views of Lower Blue Lake from above you need to continue hiking up the steep Blue Lakes Trial towards Middle Blue Lake. Come prepared for changing weather conditions. Distance: 8.56 milesElevation: 2057 ftType: Out-and-back. Enjoy magnificent views of aspens as you continue through sage and dense forest. There's a reason Maroon Lake is arguably the most photographed lake in the state. The trail will take you through both wildflower-filled meadows and forest. It is nestled between the towns of Ridgway and Telluride. You'll take the Continental Falls via the Mohawk Lakes trail to the falls. If you do opt to swim, dont wear any sunscreen. This adventure takes you through a well-marked trail with fantastic mountain views. You'd better allow 7 hours to fully enjoy the scenic beauty, however. #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. You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Overall, this is a gentle hike with typical views, well worth the short trip if you are in the area. If youre looking for a stunning place to stake out camp by a lake, look no more! Moderate 4.6 (8765) Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Alpine Loop Byway - Lake City-Ouray-Silverton - Uncover Colorado Keep your eyes peeled for moose hanging out in the bushes or near the waters edge! Welcome to Fish-Full Colorado: A Guide to Fly Fishing in Colorado - Curated In the summer, the wildflowers are quite magical. 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. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation: 3,093 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is a well-known spot. The picturesque lakes are tucked away near the mountains of Breckenridge. Its best to check with AllTrails.com or even local hiking Facebook groups to get the most up-to-date information. A Guide to Skiing Banff: An Inside Look at the SkiBig3 Resorts | GearJunkie While "alpine" is used by many anglers to describe the high elevation fisheries they visit that are inaccessible for of the year and may require a difficult drive and/or hike to access, not all high elevation fisheries are truly "alpine". PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. This is a do-able day hike, but there are spots for camping if you want to stay overnight. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Marys. 10 Alpine Hikes To Tackle Before the Snow Flies - 303 Magazine Fly Fishing Alpine Lakes - Evergreen Trout Driving time: 4 to 6 hours. Throughout the years Ive hiked well over 1,000 miles of terrain here in Colorado. In fact, this is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. On the way youll pass three additional lakes, including the iconic Dream Lake. Your email address will not be published. Travel guides created to inspire and enable people to use their time away from the office to explore the world. 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. Dream Lake is a high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located east of the continental divide in northern Colorado. The Arkansas and local streams around my home base of Salida were blown out and muddy well into July. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. Maroon Lake brings you the best of the Bells, the Maroon Bells that is. Don't knowingly lie about anyone Distance: 8.02 milesElevation: 2500 ftType: Out-and-back. What does 2023 look like for gray wolf reintroduction? If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. Located in gorgeous Glenwood Canyon, the drive to the trailhead is reason . It's Denver's highest mountain park and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1965. If you're up for the challenge, Kit Carson and Challenger Point can also be accessed along this trail. It's about a 3-mile trek out-and-back. However, this is one gorgeous hike, especially during the wildflower season. The total hike round trip to Middle Blue Lake is 7.6 miles with 2,292 ft elevation gain. Capping out at 12,183 feet in elevation, at its summit, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous road in the country. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Think again! 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. Be cautious, however, as thunderstorms are quite common in the summertime. There's a one-way road that loops around the lake and parking for trailheads leading to Blue and Mitchell Lakes in the north valley and Isabelle and Long Lakes to the south. Pass by the popular Alberta Falls, but keep trekking to leave the crowds behind and find yourself in complete solitude in this vast and unbelievably beautiful wilderness. Cutthroats were originally named by William Clark on the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition. The water is gorgeous. Cash fees may apply for accessing the area. The trail is about 6.8 miles round trip to Ice Lake with 2,457 ft elevation gain. Exploring the wilds of Denver, Colorado, and beyond. Youll be gasping for air from the steep inclines and incredible scenes. Dog-Friendly: Bloods Lake - No, Lake Lackawaxen - Yes. Adventurous hikers can continue up the glacier just be sure to bring some traction and maybe a hiking pole or two. Rocky Mountain National Park is just under a two-hour drive from Denver and an hour's drive from Boulder. From short day hikes close to the cityto multi-day backpacking tripsdeep in Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Colorado. And located in the saddle of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain, Tyndall Glacier (one of five active glaciers in the park) offers breathtaking views. This hike also has a waterfall. Mohawk Lakes offer plenty of picture-perfect backcountry camping or opportunities to summit nearby mountains, such as Father Dyer. Dispersed camping does take a little more planning, but the extra work will be well worth it. Granite spires surrounding the lake, one referred to as sharks tooth. There are also two 13,000-foot peaks nearby, Taylor and Powell. 11 Best Lakes Near Denver To Visit This Summer - OnlyInYourState Youll want to be prepared for cooler weather, even in the middle of summer. Evans and Mt. Dogs welcome. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. In the winter, there is no fee, but the road is closed. Beware of moose in this area, they are everywhere and not afraid to charge! Alpine Lakes Offer an Alternative to Crowded Fishing. Accessibility from North Cascades Highway makes it an excellent stop on a road trip through the area. More Information 2. Although Gore Lake looks reasonable on paper, this is a tough hike, with much of the elevation gained in the last couple of miles. 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. Lake Haiyaha is a stunning lake with clear teal water. Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain views. Recommended Fly Assortment for Colorado Alpine Creeks and Lakes If you're looking for a secluded adventure, the Mohawk Lakes (upper and lower) are the perfect alpine escape for you. Surround yourself in an amphitheater of dramatic rock and scope out of the best alpine lakes in Colorado. Both lakes are stunning, a gasping traverse through the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Top 12 Mountain Views in Colorado: Where to See Colorado's Best Scenery This adventure leads you through the Holy Cross Wilderness where youll be surrounded by beautiful forests. Whenever you hear someone talk about catching trout in the mountain lakes of the Rockies, the term that often comes up is "alpine". From hiking around the water to fishing, boating, picnicking, and swimming . 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. 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. Success! Trek your way through stunning alpine country to one of the most picturesque lakes in the state Hanging Lake. Set in magnificent scenery, they are the focus of considerable settlement and a thriving tourist traffic, as well as of great scientific interest. These Colorado lake hikes deliver a bit more of a challenge, but that just makes the reward that much sweeter. 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. Doggies welcome. Improve this listing. Just be sure if you ask a hiking group, you make it clear that youve already checked with good old Google. Distance: 2.8 milesElevation: 885 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and local tips: Dogs are allowed to use this trail. You'll be crossing a few small streams, so be careful after heavy rains. These high-altitude lakes are typically much clearer than their low elevation counterparts and are often fed directly by snowmelt. If you are a fan of high alpine lakes without having to travel far . Take in all the wondrous sights nature has to offer as you trek your way to Lake Agnes. With 50 square miles of golden aspens. Youll cross a couple of creeks so be sure to have the appropriate footwear on. Harder To Reach: Lawn Lake. You'll find San Cristobal incredibly stunning. Twin Lakes is located at the foot of the highest mountain in the entire Rocky Mountain Range along the continental divide and is also Colorados largest natural glacier lake. This is a great adventure for those looking to make a short trip outside of Denver. If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. Anglers should bring fishing gear as there are plenty of opportunities to fish for trout! 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. Distance: 8.12 milesElevation: 2037 ftType: Out-and-back. 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). Most of the Alpine lakes lie in valleys that were formed during the uplift of the mountain chain of the Alps. If you are looking for something a little easier to get to, try James Peak Wilderness. 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. By: There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. The hike is difficult but is worth the challenge to get to one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN COLORADO - Vows And Peaks You'll take the Mitchell Lake Trail, crossing Mitchell Creek and passing Mitchell Lake along the way. Resting beautifully at an elevation of 9,003 feet. Be sure to bring your camera and a snack to enjoy at the lake, its really that unbelievable. Technically you can swim at many alpine lakes in Colorado, but you probably dont want to. Bierstadt Lake is a Rocky Mountain National Park gem. Accessing this alpine wonder is simple. 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. 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. Alpine lakes, old cabins, creek crossings, summer wildflowers, a stupendous waterfall, and unimaginable views. Plenty of camping up there and a dog-friendly area. Blue lake sits at 11,355 feet and is frozen for much of the year. Best Day Hikes in Park City | Hiking & Outdoor Recreation All photos (263) During the Ice Age of the geologically . There are other great trout reservoirs in the area, but only Spinney is a Gold Medal water. To get to the lake, you'll pass through two lakes Dream and Nymph. Lush alpine scenery unfolds as you ascend the 8.1-mile out-and-back trail nestled in the San Juan National Forest near Silverton. Ive been hiking in Colorado for over 13 years. The total hike round trip to Upper Blue Lake is 8 miles with 2,404 ft elevation gain. The breathtaking clear blue American Lake is located in Aspen, Colorado. This is one of the easiest lakes on this list to get to, but is therefore also the most crowded. Tucked under Mt Elbert, Colorado's tallest peak sits two pristine alpine lakes nestled beside the town of Twin Lakes. If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). The Maroon Bells are world renowned for being some of the most breathtaking mountains in the US. Temperatures are often utterly freezing, since most alpine lakes are fed by snowmelt. For the ultimate sunrise with majestic mountain peaks as the backdrop, this is just the right adventure. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Marys Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. Its also home to some of the best fall hikes in Colorado. For dramatic views of Longs Peak and the iconic Diamond headwall, head up to Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. The fishing season for these high alpine lakes in Colorado is relatively short. 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. Hike to Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha Lakes, 25. The trail is short and packed with beauty, about 2-miles out-and-back. Pass by Alberta Falls along this route before continuing up the trail through the gorge. Dogs are welcome but keep them leashed, Im not kidding about the moose! The winding hike leads you past dreamy fields of wildflowers before reaching the sparkling aqua the area is known for. 11. Best time for Alpine Loop Scenic Byway in Colorado 2023 - Rove.me The 11 Best Swimming Holes In Colorado To Visit This Summer 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. Make sure to pay attention to trail signs and take a GPS, there are a lot of intersecting trails in the area. Come and try out the great hiking and mountain biking trails too! And the fish well, they just float on down, once deployed from the airplane. 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. . Did you know that Colorado is home to over 2,000 lakes? Snow Lake Trail | Map, Guide - Washington | AllTrails Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Best Lakes for Fly Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park Distance: 5.53 milesElevation: 1056 ftType: Out-and-back. Many of these lakes are nestled between some of the most incredible mountain scenery you'll ever lay eyes on, making them ideal for golden hour photoshoots. San Juan National Forest. . Take the Glacier Gorge Trail up a steep, winding dramatic valley that terminates at the famed Sky Pond. The mountains of southern Colorado are littered with alpine lake hikes. Make sure you have the necessary permits before setting up camp. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. Alpine lakes are defined by being any lake that sits above 10,000 feet above sea level. 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. 1. Keep it Clean. An alternative to driving on your own is to. 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. Exploring The Alpine Loop - ATV Colorado - Wild ATV racist or sexually-oriented language. Grand Lake. Crystal Lake - Family of Free Surface Area: 507 acres. Check the weather. Immarite? Lake Blanche Trail : An absolute must-see for the aspiring Wasatch adventurer . Distance: 9.7 milesElevation: 1,643 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: If you plan on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, youll need to pay the $25 entrance fee. The trail is located near Glenwood Springs, offering the perfect post-adventure spot. The views along the way to these four alpine lakes do not disappoint. This popular alpine lake Colorado hike near Vail, Colorado will take you across Pitkin Creek and on an intense, narrow climb up the mountain. 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. Rocky Mountain National Park is a hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies. Return To Sand Creek Lakes: Revenge Of The Skunked! Arguably one of the most scenic backpacking routes in Colorado, Gore Lake delivers alpine beauty unlike anything else.Make your way up the challenging trail to an alpine scene that literally looks like a painting. Expect to see some seriously stunning cascading waterfalls along the way. Youll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. This moderate hike is a great way to get the beautiful scenery of alpine lakes in Colorado without the lung-busting elevation gain. Visitors to the lake have the option to rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard. Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). Discover this alpine wonder by taking Rogers Pass Trail, a 9.1-mile out-and-back trail located near Rollinsville. 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. Bring your camera and pack some tasty snacks! 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. 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. 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! Threats of harming another Editor's Note:Access to some of these lakes can vary due to a number of factors, including time of year. But what if I told you we havent been given access to over half of whats really out there? The trail will end with a gorgeous view of Pitkin Lake. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. 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.' Upper & Lower Bushnell Lakes - Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort 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. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. Length 6.7 miElevation gain 1,699 ftRoute type Out & back. Again, July is a popular month to hike, but we also experience a monsoon season. Photo Credit: Jose A Feliciano Cestero (iStock). 12 Most Beautiful Lakes in Colorado - Getaway Compass Kebler Pass (Crested Butte) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go