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Maroon Lake and the Maroon Bells in early fall

Gorgeous Lake Hikes for 2025

Welcome to the breathtaking beauty of the Colorado's best lake hikes, where nature doles out epic reflections.

Home to a chunk of the glorious Rocky Mountains, this gloriously sunny state boasts an abundance of stunning lakes, along with awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

From sparkling alpine lakes above 10,000 feet to tranquil reservoirs at lower elevations, Colorado's diverse landscapes dish up something for everyone.

Dive into dreamy settings where crystal-clear waters mirror snow-capped peaks, creating a picturesque backdrop. Traipse through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky trails, and soak in the sights and sounds of the colorful flora and fauna.

Breathe in crisp mountain air on some of the prettiest hikes in Colorado. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, we’ve cover trails for everyone.

Lace up your hiking boots and let’s getaway on a cool lake hike.

Why Lake Hikes in Colorado are a Must-Do

These stunning lake hikes offer a unique opportunity to experience the state's natural beauty up close. These hikes take you through diverse terrains, from dense forests to wide open spaces teeming with wildflowers at the base of majestic mountains.

Plus, a lake is a perfect spot for a break or picnic lunch, where you can relax and reconnect with the ones you love the most.

Each cool lake hike below offers a different perspective of the state's natural wonders. Whether you're an avid photographer looking for the perfect shot or simply a nature enthusiast seeking quiet in the wilderness, these hikes cater to all interests and skill levels.

The Best Time to Visit Colorado's Lake Hikes

These pretty lake hikes are accessible throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on what you like to do.

Summer, from late June through August, is a popular time for hiking as the weather is warm, and the trails are generally clear of snow. This season offers abundant wildflowers and lush greenery, adding to the beauty of the landscape.

Fall, from September to October, provides a stunning display of golden aspens and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for a peaceful hike surrounded by vibrant colors.

Winter transforms Colorado's lake hikes into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for snowshoeing and ice fishing for those seeking a different kind of adventure.

Spring, from April to May, brings the awakening of nature and with the melting snow, means rushing creeks and waterfalls.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains, so always check trail conditions and pack accordingly for your safety and comfort. We talk more about being prepared, down below.

Mills Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

What are alpine lakes?

An alpine lake is a high-altitude lake in a mountainous area, typically above the tree line, often covered by ice into early summer. Alpine lakes are often glacial lakes, but they can also be formed by volcanic activity or landslides.

Many alpine lakes have a bright turquoise green color due to glacial flour, which is a suspension of minerals from glaciers scouring bedrock.

Alpine lakes are usually clearer than lower lakes because the cold water slows the growth of algae and moss.

Alpine lakes are often surrounded by jagged mountain peaks and they are also home to unique plant and animal species that have adapted to survive in colder, often windier environments.

What are reservoirs in Colorado?

Reservoirs in Colorado are large, man-made bodies of water that store water for irrigation, drinking, and recreation.

Many reservoirs in Colorado are located along the front range and are built to supplement irrigation water supplies. They are built by building a dam across a river or over the outlet of a lake.

Larger reservoirs are often popular for many recreational activities, including boating, paddle boarding, swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

Read more about our favorite places for paddle boarding in Colorado.

Tips for Hiking Colorado's Lake Trails

Prepare for Changing Weather: Colorado's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to check the weather the morning of the hike, dress in layers and carry essentials like a rain jacket and extra water.
Stay Hydrated: The high altitude can lead to dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your hike. We tend to carry at least two to three liters of water each for moderate and challenging hikes. Pack iodine tablets to treat running creek water, just in case.
Pack Snacks: Energizing snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fresh fruit can keep you fueled during your hike. Pack more than you think you’ll need.
Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Respect the environment by staying on designated trails, camping in designated areas, packing out your trash, and minimizing your impact on nature.
Check Trail Conditions: Before heading out, check trail conditions and any alerts or closures that may affect your hike. You can usually do this by reading comments regarding the hiking trail on AllTrails.com.
Tell Someone Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your hiking itinerary and expected return time for safety. Also, leave a written note on the dash of your car, including all of the names of people in your hiking party, the trail you are hiking, ICE contact numbers, and when you plan to return.
Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and refrain from feeding or approaching them, for your safety and theirs. Use the Thumb Rule: if you hold up your thumb and can’t cover the animal completely, you are too close.

Hiking by Snowmass Lake in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness

Safety Precautions for Hiking in Colorado's Wilderness

Altitude Sickness: Be aware of symptoms like headache, nausea, and fatigue at high altitudes. Take it slow and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness. If symptoms worsen or don’t subside, return to lower elevation and consider ending your hike early. Hydration is often preventative.
Weather Changes: Colorado's weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden storms or temperature drops by carrying appropriate gear.
Wildlife Encounters: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and never approach or feed them. Be aware of bear safety protocols in areas with bear activity.
Trail Etiquette: Yield to uphill hikers, stay on designated trails, and avoid shortcuts to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Navigation: Carry a map, compass, or GPS device to stay on course and prevent getting lost in the wilderness.
Emergency Contacts: Know the emergency contact numbers for local authorities and park rangers in case of accidents or emergencies.
Group Hiking: If hiking alone, inform someone of your plans and expected return time. Consider hiking with a buddy for safety.

Cool Lake Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’ve ever been to Rocky Mountain National Park, you know what a gem it is! And, that crowds flock here in summer and early fall.

To combat overcrowding, timed entry reservations are required to access both Rocky Mountain National Park and Bear Lake Road specifically, from May 26–October 22.

Consider riding the shuttle to these trailheads as well. With proper planning, you’ll have a great time in RMNP on these pretty Colorado lake hikes:

Dream LAke | 9905’

Trail Length: 2.0 miles Elevation Gain: 450 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

Rocky Mountain National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and its lakes are no exception. One of the most iconic hikes in the park is the trail to Dream Lake, nestled beneath Hallett Peak.

The easy-to-moderate hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.

Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Emerald Lake | 10,111’

Trail Length: 3.2 miles Elevation Gain: 700 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

Emerald Lake is another must-visit alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The hike to Emerald Lake takes you past Nymph Lake and Dream Lake, offering a picturesque journey through pine forests and rocky terrain. The reward at the end is a shimmering lake surrounded by towering peaks, making it a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Lake Haiyaha | 10,200’

Trail Length: 4.0 miles Elevation Gain: 847 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

This alpine lake became extra popular due to a recent rockslide from Chaos Canyon above. The rocks released a bunch of “glacial flour” into the lake, causing a turquoise color to appear when the sun hits the water.

The turquoise color may not remain forever, but enjoy it while you can.

Tanya and her daughter Kierstin actually hiked a stunning loop hike to Nymph, Dream, Emerald, Haiyaha and Mills Lake via the Glacier Gorge Loop. This moderate 7.5 mile alpine lake hike began from the Bear Lake trailhead and also takes you right past Alberta Falls in the end. Next time, we hope to add on Sky Pond.

We actually hiked to Nymph, Dream, Emerald, Haiyaha and Mills Lakes via Nymph Lake. You can follow it here.

Sky Pond | 10,899’

Trail Length: 8.6 miles Elevation Gain: 1774 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Hard

For a more challenging hike, head to Sky Pond via the Glacier Gorge Trail, a high-alpine lake located at the base of Taylor Peak and Powell Peak.

The 8.6 mile long hike takes you through a narrow canyon, past waterfalls and icy streams, before opening up to the stunning beauty of Sky Pond. This challenging hike is worth it for the views, making it a memorable adventure for more experienced hikers.

Melody dishes on all her favorite hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness

The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is home to some of the most photographed peaks in Colorado, and its lakes are equally captivating.

Below are our three favorite lake hikes in the Maroon Bells.

Crater Lake sits at the foot of the Maroon Bells

Crater Lake | 10,200’

Trail Length: 3.5 miles Elevation Gain: 687 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

Crater Lake, located at the base of the iconic Maroon Bells, is a short but steep hike that rewards you with unparalleled views of the twin peaks reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

You’ll start your hike at the Maroon Bells Scenic Area by Maroon Lake.

Learn more about shuttles and permitted parking in our Maroon Bells hiking post.

Snowmass Lake | 10,980’

Trail Length: 17 miles Route Type: Point to Point Difficulty: Hard

Often reached along the famous Four Pass Loop, multi-day backpacking trek, reach Snowmass Lake via the Snowmass Creek trailhead, which follows Snowmass Creek over to Buckskin Pass. Then hike down to Minnehaha Gulch to Crater Lake and finally, Maroon Lake.

Snowmass Lake is another alpine gem in the wilderness, accessible via a strenuous hike through forests and rocky terrain. The lake sits at the foot of Snowmass Peak, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering mountains. Camping near Snowmass Lake allows you to experience the tranquility of the wilderness under a blanket of stars.

Melody hiked to Snowmass Lake on her Four Pass Loop backpacking trip with her daughter Caroline. She covers everything you need to know in that article.

Copper Lake via Copper Creek Trail | 11,320’

Trail Length: 11.8 miles Elevation Gain: 2421 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Hard

This hike starts from Judd Falls trailhead at Gothic Road near Crested Butte.

I rested by Copper Lake on my return hike from Aspen to Crested Butte via the East Maroon Pass. The hike from Crested Butte to Aspen via the West Maroon Pass is also one for the books!

No doubt, the many different hiking trails in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness dole out jaw-dropping views and wildflowers upon every turn.

Coming down from the top of the East Maroon pass, you pass Copper Lake, which is the most stunning from up above. Tanya dishes on all the logistics of both of these long, challenging day hikes connecting Crested Butte and Aspen.

San Juan Mountains

Ice Lake and Island Lake | 12,392’

Trail Length: 7.7 miles Elevation Gain: 2650 feet Route Type: Lollipop Difficulty: Hard

This Colorado alpine lake hike in the San Juan Mountains is at the top of both of our bucket lists.

Beginning from the South Mineral Campground (near Silverton, which is on the Million Dollar Highway), this hike will bag you three lake views one one arduous, albeit stunning, trek.

Noah Lang showcases spectacular photography and more about Ice Lake Trail.

Blue Lakes trail near Ouray, Ridgway, and Telluride is an all-time fave

Blue Lakes in Mount Sneffels Wilderness | 11,750’

Trail Length: 8.2 miles Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Hard

The Blue Lakes Trail was the first hike our families embarked on together that sparked this blog!

The Blue Lakes Trail is the Mount Sneffels Wilderness near the small mountain towns of Telluride, Ridgway and Ouray. It’s one of our all-time favorite hikes in the San Juan Mountains.

This alpine lake journey takes you through pine forests and towering peaks as you make your way to three gorgeous turquoise lakes. The lower alpine blue lake sits at 10,940’, the middle one at 11,600’, and the upper one at 11,750’.

Pack your water sandals for lots of creek crossings.

Enjoy unforgettable panoramic views and a picnic lunch at the first of lake. Once you make it to the second lake, you might be tired, but it is worth it to press on to the third!

For more tips about the hike to these three Blue Lakes and all of of our favorite hikes near Ouray, Colorado, read more here.

Breckenridge Lake Hikes

Mohawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail | 12,104’

Mileage: 8.4 miles Elevation Gain: 2,100’ Route: Out and Back Difficulty: Hard

Melody did this hike years ago when her kids were little. Our kids have voted to do it again and so we hiked this June 2022. We started out around 8 am on a Monday morning with only a few people parked near us in the large lot. As we headed back later that morning, we ran into dozens of people.

For gorgeous wildflowers, make the effort to get to the Upper lake. It’s truly spectacular with alpine blue green water and icebergs still floating on portions of the lake. Pack lots of snacks.

As one of the area’s most popular trails, plan to go early if you want to get a parking spot. Parking is very limited. If you don’t get a spot, move on. Parking on the side streets is prohibited. (However, as of June 2022, we saw dozens of cars parked along the road with no signs of tickets.)

Learn more about this more challenging hike near Breckenridge, and read below for an alternative:

Upper and Lower Crystal Lakes | 12,982’

Mileage: 8.5 miles Elevation Gain: 2,570’ Route: Out and Back Difficulty: Hard

Also near Breckenridge, this hike to two alpine lakes above 12,000’ requires a solid snack bag and lots of water.

A late start, particularly on a Colorado summer day usually means a rainstorm. The day Melody and her husband hiked it, they got caught in a monsoon. Fast and furious with thunder and lightning, it was a dash for scrub oak cover while assuming the lightning position.

Plan ahead and be safe. This is a very popular hiking area. Parking is limited and tends to fill up early. If a parking lot is full when you show up, pick a different hike and try this one again on a different day. Head here mid-week for fewer people.

Cool Lake Hikes in and around Indian Peaks Wilderness

Lost Lake via Hessie Trail | 9800’

Trail Length: 4 miles Elevation Gain: 830 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

Hike up to beautiful Lost Lake at 9,800’ for a picnic lunch. Keep an eye out for moose. Even in early summer traction equipment may be required to complete the route.

Beautiful fall hike as well. This area is also known for great backpacking, and it’s on my list.

Lost Lake itself is actually just outside of the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. Located near the small town of Eldora west of Nederland, this route starts at the Hessie Trailhead off County Road 130 and leads to the Devil's Thumb Trail. Pay attention to the trail signs.

NOTE: Roosevelt National Forest requires a permit for overnight camping in this area.

Getting There

During the busy months, a free shuttle is available for this trailhead, from Nederland High School.

King Lake | 11,450’

Trail Length: 11.8 miles Elevation Gain: 2508 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Hard

Also near the small town of Eldora west of Nederland, the King Lake Trail is on my bucket list for 2025.

The Hessie trailhead gives access to the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Lost Lake, Woodland Lake, Devil’s Thumb Lake, and King Lake and more. But parking near the trailhead can be nearly impossible on busy days.

Wise hikers avoid the craziness and park at Nederland High School to hop on the free shuttle.

Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass Trail | 10,875’

Trail Length: 6.6 miles Elevation Gain: 663 feet Route Type: Lollipop Difficulty: Moderate

We hiked this in late June. Yes, there was some mud and some snow on the trail but it was completely manageable. Most people can do this without spikes or poles. Just don't be afraid to get muddy.

If you have an annual national park pass, your parking fee will only be two dollars at the Brainard recreation area, but don't forget to reserve your timed entry parking space online at Recreation.gov.

Read more about this beautiful hike and 8 other stunning hikes near Denver.

Monarch Lake | 8,340’

Trail Length: 4 miles Elevation Gain: 213 feet Route Type: Loop Difficulty: Easy

Just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park, this is a popular area for cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, fishing, camping, paddle boarding, and hiking.

The Monarch Lake Loop takes you through Arapaho National Forest and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, offering extraordinary views of north central Colorado. https://www.alltrails.com/ar/trail/us/colorado/monarch-lake-loop-trail

I hiked this well marked trail clockwise with my oldest son while the rest of the fam paddleboarded on the lake. You start off along the Monarch Lake and then head into the woods where you will cross sweet little log bridges over both the Arapaho and Buchanan Creeks.

The hike to Monarch Lake is a great option when nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, no matter the season. If some people in your party want to hike while others fish or paddle board, this lake is the perfect option. You will pass a popular camping area on your way to the lake.

Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Lake Trail | 12,215’

Distance: 4.2 miles Elevation gain: 1,080 feet Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

This moderate Guanella Pass hike is an excellent choice close to Denver.

Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Lake Trail

At the start, you can take the 0.4 mile walk on Naylor Lake Road to Naylor Lake if you want to add some extra mileage before you head off to see Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Reservoir.

Look up to see Square Top Mountain, looming 13,783 feet tall.

Fantastic views await just before you aim downhill to Murray Reservoir.

Hike through a forest filled with aspen, fir, pine and spruce before you reach treeline.

Enjoy the lakes and the waterfall at Silver Dollar Lake. This hike is popular in summer, in fall for leaf peeping, and in winter for snowshoeing.

Pretty Lake Hikes in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Venable Lake and Comanche Lake Loop |12,000’

Trail Length: 13.3 miles Elevation Gain: 3880 feet Route Type: Loop Difficulty: Hard

This rugged, non-crowded loop hike, with scenery for days, is absolutely worth the 13.3-mile slog up way above 12,700’.

Yes, you can go out and back to the lake on Comanche Trail (#746), which climbs steadily and steeply on a heavily forested path up to Comanche Lake.

In fact, you can also choose to go out and back to just Venable Lake as well.

One of the highlights on this unforgettable hike was a slight detour to a gorgeous waterfall that was absolutely worth the extra steps.

Our friend Jessica has also done this hike and she lays out all the different options on this one of many, favorite Westcliffe hikes.

Balman Reservoir | 9,429’

Distance: 4.3 Miles Elevation Gain: 1045’ Route Type: Lollipop Route Difficulty: Moderate

This Westcliffe hiking trail takes you to a beautiful reservoir sitting above 9,400’. You can fish or paddleboard on the clear, cold waters — be on the lookout for Arctic Grayling, Brook Trout, and Colorado River Cutthroat.

You’ll likely see folks riding their Jeep up the road.

This cool Colorado lake hike in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains starts from the Lake Creek Campground (8,340’ elevation) — a great place to camp.

Spend the day at Balman Reservoir with a picnic lunch and enjoy fantastic panoramic views. Pack your hammock and hang out. You can even set up camp up there, if your 4X4 can handle driving on bowing balls for the way up.

Music Pass to Lower Sand Creek Lake |11,460’

Trail Length: 6.6 miles Elevation Gain: 1700 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Hard

Sitting at 11,460’ Lower Sand Creek Lake is a true alpine lake.

Avid anglers bring their rods on this splendid Colorado lake hike to Lower via Music Pass. For a longer hike, continue on to Upper Sand Creek Lake.

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, just on the other side of Great Sand Dunes National Park, it’s a rough and tumble 2.5 mile drive on a 4X4 road to the Music Pass trailhead.

Once there, you’ll find the hiking trail to Music Pass easy to follow.

Starting off in the forest, after hiking just 1.1 miles in, you’ll meet the border for the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Be sure to head out to the rock outcropping for some of the best views in the Sangre De Cristo Mountain Range.

Learn more about how to reach this trailhead and details for this hike and others in Westcliffe.

Chicago Lakes and Summit Lake | 13,000’

Trail Length: 11.6 miles Elevation Gain: 3323 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Hard

This hike boasts five alpine lakes, when you hike the Chicago Lakes Trail from Echo Lake.

Starting from 10,600’ from Echo Lake, the Chicago Lakes Trail begins on a forested trail with sneak peeks of Mount Blue through the trees.

From there, you’ll pass Idaho Springs Reservoir and then up through a mix of aspen tree and pine trees before reaching Lower Chicago Lake.

Once you hit Upper Chicago Lake, you’ll be above treeline. Take in the panoramic views of the lakes below and Mount Blue Sky above.

The final climb to Summit Lake is a most challenging part of the hike and it takes you to the base of Mount Blue Sky.

Make sure you pack at least 3 L of water and a lot of snacks. You were going to burn a lot of calories. Hiking poles are a huge help! Tiny bits of snow here and there, but nothing big.

OUR FAVORITE HIKING GEAR

Here’s what keeps us going on our adventures while hiking in Colorado:

We love the Osprey Sirrus Hiking Daypack for women, or the Stratos version for men, for carrying water, layers, and snacks on Colorado day hikes
Lightweight, versatile Hiking Poles built for a full day’s send on the trail — hike longer and stronger
2L or 3L Water Reservoir — This affordable reservoir is easy to fill
Patagonia Torrentshell - a true waterproof rain jacket and fantastic layering piece
Nano Puff Jacket - our favorite for 3 seasons in Colorado
Sun hoodie - a must have in Colorado
Med kit

We’ve got your full checklist of daypack essentials here.

Looking to backpack? Follow our simple guide for a backpacking trip.

Palmer Lake Reservoirs | 7,760

Trail Length: 4.0 miles Elevation Gain: 679 feet Route Type: Out and back Difficulty: Moderate

Near Colorado Springs, this lower lake hike in Palmer Lake hits the spot in spring, summer, fall, and winter.

A go-to hike for us, since the trailhead is just 20 minutes from our house, I aim to hit this trail each season.

In summer, the upper Palmer Lake reservoir is a great lunch spot and place to hang a hammock. We love traipsing through the aspen grove in fall, and winter hikes here are serene and magical.

No dogs and no swimming allowed here. Parking is $5 at the trailhead.

Read up on this hike and more trails from Palmer Lake.

Gilpin Lake on the Zirkel Circle | 10,338’

Trail Length: varies from 9.1 to 11.6 Elevation Gain: 1994 to 2440 feet Route Type: Out and back or Loop Difficulty: Hard

Climbing over logs, stopping for waterfall pictures, walking through rocky terrain and seeing the absolute majestic views from Gilpin Lake, hiking Zirkel Circle is at the top of the best Colorado hikes we’ve ever done.

Melody and I hiked the famous Zirkel Circle in September on a cool, rainy day. No doubt, we’d hike it again.

Hiking the Zirkel Circle Loop gave us unforgettable scenic landscape that can only be experienced by exploring this part of Colorado’s wilderness. We passed Gold Creek Lake on the way up to Gilpin Lake.

We suggest hiking the Zirkel Circle counter-clockwise. We offer all kinds of helpful hiking tips for Zirkel Circle.

The Breathtaking Beauty of Colorado's Lake Hikes

Colorado's lake hikes offer a gateway to nature's hidden gems, where serenity and adventure converge in unforgettable beauty.

Whether you're exploring the iconic lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park, venturing into the wilderness of Maroon Bells-Snowmass, or heading to Boulder, Breck, or Westcliffe, each hike promises an experience that will leave you in awe of Colorado.

Prepare for changing weather, stay hydrated, carry lots of snacks, and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Where you can, consider camping near the lakes for a truly immersive outdoor adventure, and always respect the wilderness and wildlife that call these cool hiking destinations home.

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