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Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, the trail to access starts off at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. There are few hidden gems better to explore in the mountainous state of Colorado than the high alpine waters. Accessibility from North Cascades Highway makes it an excellent stop on a road trip through the area. If youre looking for a moderate jaunt with big view payout, check out Silver Dollar Lake outside of Georgetown. 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. This portion of the trail is very steep and scary so you have to be very careful and make sure to wear hiking boots and use trekking poles. 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. The fee is $5 per person (16 years and older), children under 16 are free. Miles from Denver: 100 miles. You're going to want to bring your camera on these adventures. This strenuous Sky Pond hike leads to one of the most dramatic alpine lakes in Colorado. Youll need high clearance to get to the upper lot. The breathtaking clear blue American Lake is located in Aspen, Colorado. In the winter, there is no fee, but the road is closed. You'll be crossing a few small streams, so be careful after heavy rains. Grand Lake. San Juan National Forest. 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. Walk another half mile and youll see a beautiful waterfall, followed by stellar views of Lily Lake. While opting for the alpine wonder is suitable for a wider range hiking skill levels, bagging both peaks is only recommend for the most experienced hikers. Square Top Lakes, Guanella Pass Square Top Lakes via Shutterstock. 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. Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain views. Moderate 4.6 (8765) Alpine Lakes Wilderness. 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. Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Distance: 6.74 milesElevation: 2464 ftType: Out-and-back. Alpine Loop - If you look closely you can see a 44 on the trail dwarfed by the mountains. The trail features colorful wildflower meadows, breathtaking views, and plenty of wildlife. Please note, reservations may be required for visiting the park. Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls. This is a busy area, but for good reason, the views are delicious! Extend your time at this magnificent spot and camp at one of the campsites found around both lakes. Alpine lakes are defined by being any lake that sits above 10,000 feet above sea level. This adventure features several waterfalls, streams, a creek, and meadows teeming with beautiful wildflowers a photographers dream! 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. This route is delicate, so always practice Leave No Trace when visiting. Distance: 2.8 miles round trip. You'll pass the ski resort and drive over into the Gothic valley, past the old mining town of Gothic. Backpack to three alpine lakes and an alpine lagoon in Roosevelt National Forest. Youll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. 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. There is nothing better than waking up and enjoying a hot cup of coffee next to a cold alpine lake. 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. The Loch is located at 10,200 ft in Rocky Mountain National Park. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. or drop a line and try your luck with some fishing. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 42 min to complete. Expect to see wildlife like moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or elk along the trail, especially in the late spring and early summer. Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). Check the weather. Proposition 114 passed in Colorado and now the planning process begins. Dog-friendly. Hike your way up to the lakes for breath-taking views and lakeside goodness! Capping out at 12,183 feet in elevation, at its summit, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous road in the country. Resting beautifully at an elevation of 9,003 feet. Blue Lakes Trail in Colorado is an easy daytime hike that features expansive alpine landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters. Located in gorgeous Glenwood Canyon, the drive to the trailhead is reason . 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. This picturesque adventure boasts breathtaking mountain scenery. 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. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism 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. Error! This adventure takes you through a well-marked trail with fantastic mountain views. The cold water is characteristic of alpine lakes. The ideal time to visit is. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). Here are the lessons I have learned! Stargazing at night is amazing, so be sure to bring a camera if youre into night photography! There are few hidden gems better to explore in the mountainous state of Colorado than the high alpine waters. Snow Lake Trail. 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. Cherry Creek Reservoir. Both alpine lakes sit at an elevation of about 11,000 feet. Keep your eyes peeled for moose hanging out in the bushes or near the waters edge! This list comes from years of research and is a total labor of love. To get there, follow Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes for 8.6 miles of out-and-back beauty. Driving time: 4 to 6 hours. Distance: 9.22 milesElevation: 2270 ftType: Out-and-back. 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. Twin Lakes Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls. 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. Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. Share your suggestions or stories in the comments! Breathe in the fresh air and set up a hammock to enjoy the most incredible mountain and alpine lake backdrop. Dog-Friendly: Bloods Lake - No, Lake Lackawaxen - Yes. From Bear Lake Trailhead it is about 4.2 miles roundtrip with 840 ft elevation gain. Distance: 8.47 milesElevation: 1706 ftType: Loop. Evans and Mt. Upper Blue Lake is the third lake on Blue Lakes Trail. Distance: 11 milesElevation: 2,529 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Here are 11 of the best swimming holes in Colorado, from pristine lakes to reservoirs, waterfall pools, and everything in between. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation: 846 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Marys. The trail starts off steep, dropping into a valley before running flat, then climbing steeply up again. Dispersed camping does take a little more planning, but the extra work will be well worth it. Many of the most amazing lakeside views in the state are easily accessible for beginner hikers. Surrounding peaks of granite reflect off the lake's beautiful emerald green waters nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park. The best time to visit is between June and October. In fact, almost every hike in Colorado leads to an alpine lake. Take the Glacier Gorge Trail up a steep, winding dramatic valley that terminates at the famed Sky Pond. Sprague Lake is one of the most easily accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. In winter, you will have to take a walk-around to avoid avalanche terrain so be alert. Camping in dispersed camping areas gives you the opportunity for a little more privacy and peace and quiet. To see most of these incredible lakes in Colorado on one road trip, check out our Colorado Road Trip Itinerary. Rocky Mountain National Park is just under a two-hour drive from Denver and an hour's drive from Boulder. 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. Take in all the wondrous sights nature has to offer as you trek your way to Lake Agnes. You'll be surrounded by jagged peak, stunning summer wildflower displays, and crystal clear waters. It's the state's highest peak. 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". 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. Throughout the post youll find: Absolutely. Lake Haiyaha is a stunning lake with clear teal water. The 6.3-mile hike takes 2.5-3 hours, and the elevation gain is very gradual for. This rather large lake is surrounded by pines with a dramatic mountain background. Surface Area: 507 acres. Come and try out the great hiking and mountain biking trails too! PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. Distance: 11.32 milesElevation: 2375 ftType: Out-and-back. You'll find San Cristobal incredibly stunning. For the best wildflowers, do this hike in late July. . There was an error processing your request. Lake Isabelle is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado (add about five miles round trip for the winter hike). However, in the winter months, some of the roads to various trailheads arent maintained, and this may add a substantial amount of snowy hiking to your journey. Though one of the shorter adventures on this list, the hike to Loch Vale in Rocky National Park is surely just as rewarding as the others. There are three lakes in the basin. Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. If youre looking for short, sweet, and steep with incredible views, Windsor Lake near Leadville is an awesome choice. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. Throughout the year, Never Summer Nordic rents two yurts en route to Jewel Lake in State Forest State Park. Since it's a relatively short hike, this is a great one for a family nature outing. Something that absolutely should be on your list of things to do with kids in Colorado! The trail flattens out at the basin below Columbine Lake and once you arrive you're in for a real treat. 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. The water is gorgeous. Photographers will appreciate the remarkable sunrise and night shot opportunities. Also, dont be an ass, you are not allowed to swim or climb around on the logs here. Remember to treat this natural wonderland with great care to preserve its vivid beauty and to keep it pristine for those who visit next! Both lakes are stunning, a gasping traverse through the Indian Peaks Wilderness. 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. The Outbound Collective Set in magnificent scenery, they are the focus of considerable settlement and a thriving tourist traffic, as well as of great scientific interest. Photo: Whitney JamesDistance: 3.15 milesElevation: 650 ftType: Out-and-back. 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. You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Up for a challenge? Lush alpine scenery unfolds as you ascend the 8.1-mile out-and-back trail nestled in the San Juan National Forest near Silverton. It lies at treeline in a spectacular alpine valley framed by Navajo, Apache and Shoshoni peaks.