This 7.7 miles trail boasts a wow factor unlike any other. If you want to stay in town, choose nearby Frantz Lake in Salida or Buena Vista Town Lake in McPhelemy Park. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy spanning alpine lake views. Rocky Mountain National Park is just under a two-hour drive from Denver and an hour's drive from Boulder. Emerald Lake is located in Rocky Mountain National Park, and is reached by hiking from Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Blue Lakes Trail in Colorado is an easy daytime hike that features expansive alpine landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters. 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. In fact, almost every hike in Colorado leads to an alpine lake. Surrounding peaks of granite reflect off the lake's beautiful emerald green waters nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park. Sharp granite cliffs rise straight out of the water as you gaze upon views of Longs Peak in the distance. 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. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Lake Isabelle is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado (add about five miles round trip for the winter hike). But beyond those details, Colorado is one of the few states where you can legally marry yourselves! If youre looking for short, sweet, and steep with incredible views, Windsor Lake near Leadville is an awesome choice. Which lake near Denver has the bluest water? 17. The main attraction while at the lake is the commanding Hallett Peak. When it comes to the best lake hikes in Colorado, this post has it all. 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. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Make sure to pay attention to trail signs and take a GPS, there are a lot of intersecting trails in the area. In the summer, the trail becomes a 44 road that you can still hike on, terminating at a parking lot. 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. You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Check out three different alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness with the Crater Lakes Trail. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! Follow the signs to the Pikes Peak Highway entry gate. Our first date was a three-day camping trip on the backroads of Colorado. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. 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. Visitors to the lake have the option to rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard. Youll begin the hike winding through dense forest before the scenery opens up to an incredible view of Longs Peak. Trek your way through stunning alpine country to one of the most picturesque lakes in the state Hanging Lake. The Alpine Lakes is the largest wilderness area . You will encounter a boulder field, so be prepared for occasional scrambling. By Heather Brinkmann | The Denver Post. Anglers should bring fishing gear as there are plenty of opportunities to fish for trout! You even get two lakes for the price of one hike. Not to mention, the lake bottom is often rocky and very slippery. 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.' The breathtaking clear blue American Lake is located in Aspen, Colorado. Access: Transit to Trails is a great option for these hikes! Come prepared for changing weather conditions. Pass by Alberta Falls along this route before continuing up the trail through the gorge. Distance: Depends. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. 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. Distance: 5.33 milesElevation: 1322 ftType: Out-and-back. Youll find over 2,000 alpine lakes in Colorado. However, the serenity of the lakes is well worth the butt-busting effort. This includes water, snacks, sun protection, extra layers, and more. 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. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Marys. Share your suggestions or stories in the comments! In Colorado's lakes and streams most Cutthroats average 9 to . Alpine Lakes in Colorado. Stay awhile and enjoy the views! 11. Photo: Ryan MckinneyDistance: 4.09 milesElevation: 374 ftType: Out-and-back. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Again, it depends. The trail is about 6.8 miles round trip to Ice Lake with 2,457 ft elevation gain. If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different Lakes? Elevation Gain: 465 feet. Moderate (difficult in winter) 2.4-mile out-and-back. There are a lot of famous alpine lake hikes in Colorado to discover. The byway provides many scenic overlooks to view each of these Colorado beauties. After seeing Island Lake continue ahead and take a right to form a small loop. The hike is difficult but is worth the challenge to get to one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. Learn more 1. Keep in mind permits are required and parking fills up fast. The designation means Spinney is public fishing water that produces a minimum of 12 fish of 14in or more and 60lbs per acre. Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links for products and services I recommend. 8 to 4 miles Round TripElevation: Depends. 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. Youll get glimpses of Longs Peak and Alberta Falls (in the summer). You're going to want to bring your camera on these adventures. ATV The Alpine Loop Length: 65 mile loop Drive Time: 5-7 hours Fees: 3-day Pass: $6.00 7-day Pass: $12.00 Annual Pass: $45.00 Or America the Beautiful Pass (National Park Pass) Difficulty: 75% Easy / 25% Difficult (rock outcroppings, drop offs) Access: Easy ATV Friendly Town: Lake City Ideal Riding Season: Mid Summer - September Fall is a great time to visit for the changing aspens, but if you love wildflowers, consider a late-spring to summer visit. Seriouslyover 2,000! Since the trail to get to Ice Lake is steep and long you should make sure to wear hiking boots. This lake is known for the reflection you can see in the lake of 14,000 ft tall Maroon Peaks. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. The lake is an additional 2-ish miles from the parking area. The main mountain attraction is Lone Eagle Peak, which climbers can also ascend. These Colorado lake hikes deliver a bit more of a challenge, but that just makes the reward that much sweeter. This adventure leads you through the Holy Cross Wilderness where youll be surrounded by beautiful forests. Its always important to pack the Ten Essentials in a small backpack. For more information on how to do this lake loop, continue to our Rocky Mountain National Park Guide. Blue lake sits at 11,355 feet and is frozen for much of the year. For the best wildflowers, do this hike in late July. Distance: 14.94 milesElevation: 2421 ftType: Out-and-back. Surround yourself in an amphitheater of dramatic rock and scope out of the best alpine lakes in Colorado. This is one of the easiest lakes on this list to get to, but is therefore also the most crowded. The backcountry hike to Mirror and Crater Lakes features abundant wildlife, glorious mountain backdrops, and beautiful wildflowers. Distance: 6.8 milesElevation: 1,548 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape: Many 14er-enthusiasts camp here overnight before their summit bids. Enjoy magnificent views of aspens as you continue through sage and dense forest. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation: 1,765 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs allowed. Distance: 10.6 milesElevation: 2,578 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: To get to this trailhead youll want a high-clearance vehicle. This hike also has a waterfall. (And be sure to take time to branch off and discover the wonder of Salmon Lake along the way, tucked deep in the forest amidst fields of impressive boulders and towering pines.) There are three lakes in the basin. Camping is prohibited within a quarter of a mile to protect its fragile environment. Along the way, catch sight of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. Though close in proximity to Maroon Lake, Crater Lake is a less crowded destination, yet still unbelievably scenic. You can take a dip at Sprouting Rock in a stunning turquoise oasis found just behind Hanging Lake. Be sure to check the weather before beginning this adventure as summer thunderstorms in this area can be aggressive. The best time to do this hike is early in the morning for sunrise you wont be mad you did! Keep in mind that State Forest State Park requires a fee. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism 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. There is nothing better than waking up and enjoying a hot cup of coffee next to a cold alpine lake. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. Bierstadt, and even Denver at times. Doggies welcome. The views along the way to these four alpine lakes do not disappoint. The trail will end with a gorgeous view of Pitkin Lake. Its my favorite backpacking route in Colorado and well-worth an overnight. For a real adventure, combine your lake hike in Colorado with an overnight at a yurt. The cold water is characteristic of alpine lakes. This list comes from years of research and is a total labor of love. The ideal time to visit is. The trail itself is moderately wooded. Discover this alpine wonder by taking Rogers Pass Trail, a 9.1-mile out-and-back trail located near Rollinsville. Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). Youll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. Above treeline, the weather can move in quickly and even on a sunny day, the air can feel quite cool. The hike to lower blue lake is 6 miles round trip with 1,610 ft elevation gain. Colorado's Alpine Loop is affectionately called the " Switzerland of America" for a reason! Before reaching Heart Lake, be sure to soak in the alpine views first at Rogers Lake. Lakes at 12,000 feet above sea level may only offer a couple of months of fishing due to the heavy snowfall in Colorado. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. Keep moving forward and the trail will switch back and then head up the mountain. You'll find Continental Falls in the White River National Forest near Breckenridge. 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. The best lakes in Colorado often require hard hikes to get to but that also means that you can enjoy them with less people. 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. 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! Photo: Whitney JamesDistance: 3.15 milesElevation: 650 ftType: Out-and-back. If you're looking for a large and yet completely natural lake, then Grand Lake is the place to be in Colorado. 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. Distance: 5.53 milesElevation: 1056 ftType: Out-and-back. On the way to Emerald Lake you will also pass Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. Tell someone about your plans. Think again! 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. Unfortunately, in the summer it can get hot with temperatures, The American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that cannot be missed. Nestled in those mountains behind Trout Lake sits Hope Lake. Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park lies Dream Lake. Among the lakes stocked on Monday, the highest of them - Ptarmigan Lake in Gunnison County - sits at 12,306 feet. This water adventure features beautiful cascading waterfalls among steep rocky cliffs and lush green pine trees. 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. Be Truthful. Bear Lake Bear Lake located in Rocky Mountain National Park Located off of Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, Bear Lakes makes for a quick pit stop. This short 6.5-mile round-trip trail boasts picturesque alpine lakes and stunning views of Pfeifferhorn. Please note, reservations are required to visit the park. It connects the towns of Silverton and Ouray with Lake City, where it is generally considered to begin (and end). Please explore responsibly! 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. Nineteen of the 24 lakes shown in the video sit above 10,000 feet in elevation. In reality, you can make your way to an alpine lake any time of the year. However, dont be fooled by the easy accessibility. Keep your eyes peeled for moose hanging out in the bushes or near the waters edge! Pass by several waterfalls on your way to one of the most magnificent lakes in all of Colorado. 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". Distance: 6.74 milesElevation: 2464 ftType: Out-and-back. Lake Haiyaha is a stunning lake with clear teal water. It's a 1.8-mile trek (3.6 miles round trip). The trail is located near Glenwood Springs, offering the perfect post-adventure spot. 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. It can be hard to narrow down which hikes, Colorado is a beautiful state with tall peaks, incredible lakes, and four unique national parks. The snowpack is different every year, so its tough to say when trails will be snow-free. It looked like a decent hike that led to such a clean and . Are there any waterfalls I can visit near Denver? Photo Credit: The Gazette, Christian Murdock. We can easily drive 30 minutes into high elevation aspen forests & alpine lakes when desired. Success! Something that absolutely should be on your list of things to do with kids in Colorado! Just be sure if you ask a hiking group, you make it clear that youve already checked with good old Google. Then recheck it the day before your hike. Accessibility from North Cascades Highway makes it an excellent stop on a road trip through the area. Make it a day by going on one of Colorados most scenic drives! There is plenty of fishing, swimming, camping, and even small, easy hiking trails that provide plenty of family fun. Another iconic alpine lake hike in Colorado, Ice Lake brings you unbelievable brilliant blue waters. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. 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. Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Green Mountain Reservoir. Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. from 119 at Rollinsville, drive about 8 miles down the dirt road along South Boulder Creek. Sprague is one of the best places to catch the sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park. Does Sky Pond sound too intense? Sprague Lake is one of the most easily accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. 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! 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. . person will not be tolerated. In the summer, the wildflowers are quite magical. If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! Distance: 8.12 milesElevation: 2037 ftType: Out-and-back. Sculpted by the forces of volcanoes, glaciers, wind, and rain, the resulting mountains, valleys, streams, and lakes are a masterpiece of nature's artistry. 2,568 feet max, MUCH less if starting from the Wheeler Trail.Difficulty: Moderate to easy depending on your route.Red Tape and Local Tips: Unlike many of Colorados famed high clearance roads (where you can usually get away with a small SUV), the road to the top of Crystal Lake is an ACTUAL Jeep trail. Most of these lakes are accessible by foot only, although you can also drive to quite a few of them. This glacial lake is the largest natural lake in Colorado in terms of surface area, depth, and total water volume. Check that the ice is fully frozen on the lake before stepping on to cross in the colder months!