Distance: 5.4 milesElevation: 1,072 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs allowed. Enjoy magnificent views of aspens as you continue through sage and dense forest. Camp at Twin Lakes White Star Campground. Breathe in the fresh air and set up a hammock to enjoy the most incredible mountain and alpine lake backdrop. There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. Trail Use: Hiking Only. 10 Alpine Hikes To Tackle Before the Snow Flies - 303 Magazine The designation means Spinney is public fishing water that produces a minimum of 12 fish of 14in or more and 60lbs per acre. 5h 16m. With so many lake hikes, Colorado will have your hiking itinerary booked for years! Please explore responsibly! Snow Lake Trail | Map, Guide - Washington | AllTrails . Then, continue climbing to blue Lake at the base of Mt. 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. The main attraction while at the lake is the commanding Hallett Peak. The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! Moderate (difficult in winter) 2.4-mile out-and-back. Temperatures are often utterly freezing, since most alpine lakes are fed by snowmelt. accounts, the history behind an article. The hike to lower blue lake is 6 miles round trip with 1,610 ft elevation gain. Rocky Mountain National Park (U.S. National Park Service) 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. Eventually, you will come across a meadow and can continue up the far side of the mountain, through a dense evergreen forest. Fly Fishing for Cutthroat Trout in Colorado - Vail Valley Anglers Photo: Nicola EasterbyDistance: 3.06 milesElevation: 1168 ftType: Out-and-back. At these lakes you can canoe, kayak, and paddle board. Tell someone about your plans. Related: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Like a Local. To get to the lake, you'll pass through two lakes Dream and Nymph. Fish a high lake near Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado 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. In the summer, the wildflowers are quite magical. person will not be tolerated. The fishing season for these high alpine lakes in Colorado is relatively short. Embark on an adventure at Pitkin Lake. The 15 Highest Elevation Lakes in the United States - AZ Animals Independence Pass is also located nearby for scenic travelers. The cherry on top is a chance at landing a fish of a lifetime. Distance: 2.8 miles round trip. Does Sky Pond sound too intense? Distance: 14.94 milesElevation: 2421 ftType: Out-and-back. Note that this hike does require permits, so be sure to reserve yours in advance to enjoy this fun summertime waterfall adventure! 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. 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). 30 Alpine Lakes You Should Visit This Summer | Outdoor Project This list of the 16 top destinations in the Southwest US will, Your email address will not be published. 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. 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. Lake Blanche Trail : An absolute must-see for the aspiring Wasatch adventurer . . Where you can catch golden trout in northern Colorado | 9news.com - KUSA 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. Rollins Pass is in the FunTreks Northern Colorado Backroads 4 Wheel Drive . 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. There are a total of six campsites along the route as well as at the lake. Be sure to check the weather before beginning this adventure as summer thunderstorms in this area can be aggressive. The 11 Best Swimming Holes In Colorado To Visit This Summer And located in the saddle of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain, Tyndall Glacier (one of five active glaciers in the park) offers breathtaking views. What is Lindsey's job? : r/LoveOffTheGrid Note that the weather can flip quite rapidly in this area, so be prepared for all the elements sun, wind, snow, and rain! Distance: 6.5 milesElevation: 1,804 feetDifficulty: moderate to difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail gets insanely busy in the summer, so start early. There is no shortage of beautiful lakes near Denver, and there are several with magnificently blue water. Photo: Whitney JamesDistance: 3.15 milesElevation: 650 ftType: Out-and-back. Located outside of the beautiful mountain town of Vail, the trail to the lake is about 12.5 miles out-and-back. 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. 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. Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain 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. Parking early in the morning is free at the Bear Lake Trailhead. Theres no shortage of fantastic mountain and lake views. Travel over the off-road driving trail (either on foot or by 44) and reach the Alta Ghost Town. the most part. There are few hidden gems better to explore in the mountainous state of Colorado than the high alpine waters. More Information 2. Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! At 13,420 feet, Pacific Tarn is the highest alpine lake in the United States, and you can have it all to yourself. Dogs are welcome but keep them leashed, Im not kidding about the moose! Length: 7.9 mi Est. Distance: 2.8 milesElevation: 885 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and local tips: Dogs are allowed to use this trail. racist or sexually-oriented language. Mohawk Lakes offer plenty of picture-perfect backcountry camping or opportunities to summit nearby mountains, such as Father Dyer. Extend your time at this magnificent spot and camp at one of the campsites found around both lakes. Capping out at 12,183 feet in elevation, at its summit, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous road in the country. Stay awhile and enjoy the views! 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. 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. This adventure leads you to one of Rocky Mountain National Parks deepest lakes (~50 ft deep). Blue Lakes Trail in Colorado is an easy daytime hike that features expansive alpine landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters. Above treeline, the weather can move in quickly and even on a sunny day, the air can feel quite cool. If you want to stay in town, choose nearby Frantz Lake in Salida or Buena Vista Town Lake in McPhelemy Park. The Alpine Lakes is the largest wilderness area . Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park lies Dream Lake. The fee is $5 per person (16 years and older), children under 16 are free. The hike from Ice Lake to Island Lake is about half a mile with 100 foot elevation gain. Its always important to pack the Ten Essentials in a small backpack. The electric, mineral-rich water beckons. And dont forget to look out for mountain goats! If you're looking for a secluded adventure, the Mohawk Lakes (upper and lower) are the perfect alpine escape for you. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Fall is a great time to visit for the changing aspens, but if you love wildflowers, consider a late-spring to summer visit. Youll begin the hike winding through dense forest before the scenery opens up to an incredible view of Longs Peak. The 2.3-mile out-and-back trail starts off in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area and then winds on to the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Green Mountain Reservoir. . Best Lakes for Fly Fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park Travel guides created to inspire and enable people to use their time away from the office to explore the world. Camping in dispersed camping areas gives you the opportunity for a little more privacy and peace and quiet. There are three lakes in the basin. Dog-friendly. Keep in mind that State Forest State Park requires a fee. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. The best way to see the highlights of Colorado is, Sedona is a town surrounded by red rocks that offers incredible hikes, but its beauty and social media popularity has attracted crowds. Twin Lakes Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. 11. Plan accordingly. Error! Thats right, a hiking trail that features a lake and an abandoned mining town! Please note, reservations are required to visit the lake. Alpine lakes, old cabins, creek crossings, summer wildflowers, a stupendous waterfall, and unimaginable views. Be cautious, however, as thunderstorms are quite common in the summertime. This strenuous Sky Pond hike leads to one of the most dramatic alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. Aside from craggy peaks, youll also see wildflowers springing from the ground all along the banks of the lakes during summer. 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. Alpine lake help, I know this is a long shot! : ) - FishExplorer Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. 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. You'll find Continental Falls in the White River National Forest near Breckenridge. Distance: Depends. Lake Isabelle. The picturesque lakes are tucked away near the mountains of Breckenridge. 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. Set in magnificent scenery, they are the focus of considerable settlement and a thriving tourist traffic, as well as of great scientific interest. Sculpted by the forces of volcanoes, glaciers, wind, and rain, the resulting mountains, valleys, streams, and lakes are a masterpiece of nature's artistry. 25 Beautiful Alpine Lakes in Colorado - The Outbound BEST PLACES TO ELOPE IN COLORADO - Vows And Peaks 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. These lakes are next to Independence Pass, a road that takes you to Aspen. Keep in mind that there is now a shuttle and permit system. This adventure will bring you by wide open meadows and plenty of wildlife (look out for moose and elk!) Our other most popular lakeside elopement locations in Colorado are Blue Lakes near Breckenridge and Lake Isabelle near Boulder. 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. Awesome views, wildlife, lakes and wild flowers await you on this lollipop loop ride. The hike gains more than 3,000 feet of elevation, so be prepared for a strenuous climb coached with incredible views to keep you distracted. Banff Sunshine. Parking is $5 at the Summit Lake parking lot. Whenever you hear someone talk about catching trout in the mountain lakes of the Rockies, the term that often comes up is "alpine". Since it's a relatively short hike, this is a great one for a family nature outing. Get to know this 6.7-mile out-and-back trail near Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. For a real adventure, combine your lake hike in Colorado with an overnight at a yurt. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. The main mountain attraction is Lone Eagle Peak, which climbers can also ascend. Evans at 14,265', or you can take the trail less traveled and summit using one of the many official and unofficial routes to the top from the lake. This hike can be done in a near-15-mile day over moderate terrain, or you can obtain a permit to backpack and camp right near the lake. Alpine lakes, the 11 significant European lakes fringing the great mountainous mass of the Alps. If you are a fan of high alpine lakes without having to travel far . . This popular lake is located within Maroon Bells Wilderness Area. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. This lake is known for the reflection you can see in the lake of 14,000 ft tall Maroon Peaks. Throughout the post youll find: Absolutely. If you just cant get enough alpine lakes in Colorado, why not choose a hiking trail that hits four different Lakes? Along the way explore over 300 miles of hiking trails and incredible . Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. Not many people venture to the mountain ranges down south, so expect lots of solitude. Something that absolutely should be on your list of things to do with kids in Colorado! Bushnell lakes sit under Bushnell Peak and SE of Stout Lakes drainage. The Sangre de Cristo mountains offer tranquil scenery without the hustle and bustle of the weekend warrior crowd near Denver. Editor's Note:Access to some of these lakes can vary due to a number of factors, including time of year. 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. As one of the best lake hikes in Colorado, this strenuous 12-plus mile hike is best done in two days. Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado | Colorado.com This list comes from years of research and is a total labor of love. Connecting the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake, Trail Ridge Road traverses Rocky Mountain National Park, making this one of the most scenic mountain passes in Colorado. Distance: 8.56 milesElevation: 2057 ftType: Out-and-back. During the Ice Age of the geologically . Since its such an iconic spot, you likely wont find yourself alone, unless you plan wisely and go early in the season, late in the evening, or during the winter. It is nestled between the towns of Ridgway and Telluride. San Juan National Forest. Some hikes, like, Sedona is one of the most amazing places to hike and enjoy the beautiful nature. Distance: 6.92 milesElevation: 1804 ftType: Out-and-back. If you push on past the falls, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful alpine lakes near Denver. You'll be surrounded by jagged peak, stunning summer wildflower displays, and crystal clear waters. If youre looking for a moderate jaunt with big view payout, check out Silver Dollar Lake outside of Georgetown.

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