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. Be Nice. Heart Lake is another great option for backpackers. 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. 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. This adventure features several waterfalls, streams, a creek, and meadows teeming with beautiful wildflowers a photographers dream! You will encounter a boulder field, so be prepared for occasional scrambling. The total round trip hike to Island Lake with the loop is 8 miles with 2,700 ft elevation gain. This trail is well-used but has an interesting start as you make your way up next to and around a huge railway tunnel. Whether you make a day hike or weekend of it, these hidden, Tucked away at the intersection of two valleys in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, is the popular Brainard Lake Recreation Area, with its namesake lake resting at 10,500.' Miles from Denver: 100 miles. Everyone knows about Hanging Lake, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. Travel over the off-road driving trail (either on foot or by 44) and reach the Alta Ghost Town. Our first date was a three-day camping trip on the backroads of Colorado. 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. With such a delicate ecosystem, your skin oils and sunscreen can kill the wildlife that lives in the lake. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. You'll be crossing a few small streams, so be careful after heavy rains. Articles by Heather Brinkman's Profile | Daily Camera, Longmont Times Return To Sand Creek Lakes: Revenge Of The Skunked! You'll find this alpine gem located near Nederland. There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different Lakes? Moderate 4.6 (8765) Alpine Lakes Wilderness. No dogs. Bierstadt, and even Denver at times. It's the state's highest peak. Does Sky Pond sound too intense? In reality, you can make your way to an alpine lake any time of the year. Among the lakes stocked on Monday, the highest of them - Ptarmigan Lake in Gunnison County - sits at 12,306 feet. Photographers will appreciate the remarkable sunrise and night shot opportunities. By: 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. Set in magnificent scenery, they are the focus of considerable settlement and a thriving tourist traffic, as well as of great scientific interest. Hike to the base of several Colorado 14ers at South Colony Lakes and enjoy one of the best hikes in Colorado. There are plenty of wildlife viewing (moose, turkey, deer, ptarmigan) and fishing opportunities. Photo Credit: The Gazette, Christian Murdock. If you are a fan of high alpine lakes without having to travel far . The trail is about 6.8 miles round trip to Ice Lake with 2,457 ft elevation gain. But once there, you can take in impressive panoramas of the valley below as well as hidden meadows, streams, and ponds. Nestled in those mountains behind Trout Lake sits Hope Lake. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. Alta Lakes whip up an alpine lake hike with a twist. Keep in mind, the average hiker moves at about 2 miles an hour or covers 1,000 feet of elevation gain in an hour. Blue Lakes Trail in Colorado is an easy daytime hike that features expansive alpine landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters. To extend your adventure, you can continue on to Isabelle Glacier. Must Visit Stunning Lakes in Colorado | Insider Families 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. There is plenty of fishing, swimming, camping, and even small, easy hiking trails that provide plenty of family fun. 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. 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. 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. Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no . Chasm Lake makes for a beautiful summer adventure. To see views of Lower Blue Lake from above you need to continue hiking up the steep Blue Lakes Trial towards Middle Blue Lake. Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. This is the most beautiful lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, and can be combined with Bear Lake and Emerald Lake. In fact, this is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Dispersed camping does take a little more planning, but the extra work will be well worth it. Distance: 2.8 milesElevation: 885 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and local tips: Dogs are allowed to use this trail. Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). The winding hike leads you past dreamy fields of wildflowers before reaching the sparkling aqua the area is known for. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Also, keep in mind there are restrictions on where you can walk, so be respectful of signs and regulations. 1. After turning on to Co. 16 (Tolland Rd.) Winter Hikes to Alpine Lakes in Colorado | Westword 2. The parking lot can get crowded, so plan accordingly. Stargazing at night is amazing, so be sure to bring a camera if youre into night photography! Huskies also thrive in Colorado - alpine lakes, cross . The Loch is located at 10,200 ft in Rocky Mountain National Park. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. Blue Lakes Trail in Telluride, Colorado takes you to three of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. 11. And the fish well, they just float on down, once deployed from the airplane. If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! Seriouslyover 2,000! Make sure you have the necessary permits before setting up camp. After seeing Island Lake continue ahead and take a right to form a small loop. This is one of the most iconic adventures in Colorado and for good reason! Beware of moose in this area, they are everywhere and not afraid to charge! The electric, mineral-rich water beckons. 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. The picturesque lakes are tucked away near the mountains of Breckenridge. You will definitely want to wear hiking boots and bring trekking poles for this part of the trail. Grand Lake. Washington's Best Lakes | Outdoor Project Expect to see some seriously stunning cascading waterfalls along the way. My anticipation grows with each new day, as the sun burns hotter, longer, and stronger, thawing the lakes and tundra of the high country and promising a summer filled with days spent in the wilds. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. You'll find Continental Falls in the White River National Forest near Breckenridge. Most of Colorado's 2,000 high lakes lie on public lands between 9,000 and 12,000 feet and are accessible by a few miles of Forest Service trail. The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! 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. You'll need four-wheel drive to access the campsites at Bill Moore Lake but getting there on the steep rocky roads is part of the fun! Lake Haiyaha is a stunning lake with clear teal water. Alpine Loop Colorado Department of Transportation Distance: 5.53 milesElevation: 1056 ftType: Out-and-back. 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. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Marys Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. The cold water is characteristic of alpine lakes. The freshwater lake is the perfect spot for boating or fishing. Distance: 10.6 milesElevation: 2,578 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: To get to this trailhead youll want a high-clearance vehicle. Lake Isabelle is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado (add about five miles round trip for the winter hike). With so many lake hikes, Colorado will have your hiking itinerary booked for years! Square Top Lakes, Guanella Pass Square Top Lakes via Shutterstock. 6 Amazing Hidden Lakes in Colorado You Probably Never Knew Existed Learn more You could spend a lifetime trying to see all of the alpine lakes in Colorado and just barely scratch the surface. The scenery is beautiful throughout and provides many opportunities for continued exploration while at the top! 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. 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. The Lake Haiyaha hike is accessible year-round and a great option for beginners or those looking for a gentle day and one of the best winter hikes in Colorado. Check with the Castle Mountain Recreation Company for more up-to-date information. More Information 2. The main mountain attraction is Lone Eagle Peak, which climbers can also ascend. The trail will take you through both wildflower-filled meadows and forest. . Keep in mind that State Forest State Park requires a fee. This hike also has a waterfall. It's Denver's highest mountain park and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1965. Distance: 2.93 milesElevation: 675 ftType: Loop. Get to know this 6.7-mile out-and-back trail near Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. Expect to see wildlife like moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or elk along the trail, especially in the late spring and early summer. This lake is in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. Maybird Lakes : Maybird Gulch is a rugged piece of the Lone Peak Wilderness in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Water activities including fishing and kayaking are great ways to spend time exploring the area, especially if you plan to stay and camp. Don't knowingly lie about anyone This popular lake is located within Maroon Bells Wilderness Area. About. The 6.3-mile hike takes 2.5-3 hours, and the elevation gain is very gradual for. Its still worth a visit, even if you arent climbing. Sky Pond is one of the most jaw-dropping sights to see. Its a total bonus if you hit this trail early and arrive for the sunrise! Pass by Alberta Falls along this route before continuing up the trail through the gorge. Your email address will not be published. Sandbeach Lake has a wide sandy shore thats perfect for picnicking or simply sitting to take in the scenery. Where you can catch golden trout in northern Colorado | 9news.com - KUSA Sundial Peak over Lake Blanche. Alpine lakes | Britannica Another iconic alpine lake hike in Colorado, Ice Lake brings you unbelievable brilliant blue waters. If you do opt to swim, dont wear any sunscreen. Since it's a relatively short hike, this is a great one for a family nature outing. Nineteen of the 24 lakes shown in the video sit above 10,000 feet in elevation. 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 list comes from years of research and is a total labor of love. 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. For a real adventure, combine your lake hike in Colorado with an overnight at a yurt. This adventure leads you through the Holy Cross Wilderness where youll be surrounded by beautiful forests. Distance: 3.9 milesElevation: 1,062 feetDifficulty: Easy to moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: Sometimes the road in is closed, which adds about a mile each way. Photo: Nicola EasterbyDistance: 3.06 milesElevation: 1168 ftType: Out-and-back. The road will dead end at Moffat Tunnel where you'll find ample parking in a gravel lot with restrooms. Did you know that Colorado is home to over 2,000 lakes? Dont expect solitude here, even in the dead of winter. Youll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. Want a bit more of a challenge? Keep in mind that there is now a shuttle and permit system. Surrounding peaks of granite reflect off the lake's beautiful emerald green waters nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. 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. Most of the Alpine lakes lie in valleys that were formed during the uplift of the mountain chain of the Alps. Share your suggestions or stories in the comments! from 119 at Rollinsville, drive about 8 miles down the dirt road along South Boulder Creek. Don't Threaten. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Distance: 6.8 milesElevation: 1,548 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape: Many 14er-enthusiasts camp here overnight before their summit bids.