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For an added challenge and extra mileage, you can even summit Longs Peak for an elevated vantage point! Parking early in the morning is free at the Bear Lake Trailhead. The hike from Ice Lake to Island Lake is about half a mile with 100 foot elevation gain. Tucked under Mt Elbert, Colorado's tallest peak sits two pristine alpine lakes nestled beside the town of Twin Lakes. Gore Lake. It's about a 3-mile trek out-and-back. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Maroon Lake brings you the best of the Bells, the Maroon Bells that is. Accessing this alpine wonder is simple. This strenuous Sky Pond hike leads to one of the most dramatic alpine lakes in Colorado. Youll get glimpses of Longs Peak and Alberta Falls (in the summer). Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Sculpted by the forces of volcanoes, glaciers, wind, and rain, the resulting mountains, valleys, streams, and lakes are a masterpiece of nature's artistry. Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, located at 12,400 feet. Overview. Forsythe Canyon Round-trip Distance: 2.2 miles Trailhead: Forsythe Canyon - Lincoln National Forest Difficulty: Easy This short hike starts just outside of Boulder. Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. 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. The designation means Spinney is public fishing water that produces a minimum of 12 fish of 14in or more and 60lbs per acre. For a brief time, in only the warmest months of the year, will you find the waters of the Green Mountain Reservoir tolerable for swimming. Green Mountain Reservoir. Stargazing at night is amazing, so be sure to bring a camera if youre into night photography! In winter, you will have to take a walk-around to avoid avalanche terrain so be alert. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. Although the entire hike is 2.4 miles long, you will arrive at the lake in half a. Distance: 8.02 milesElevation: 2500 ftType: Out-and-back. It's demandingthe two 12,000-foot passes (Cinnamon and Engineer) require a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle but the well-prepared motorist reaps . Theres nothing more grounding and invigorating than a rousing climb to a crystal clear alpine lake, followed by a little exploration, relaxation, (and certainly a picnic), at a pristine mountain paradise at around 11,000. These serene alpine lakes near Denver are something everyone should experience this summerbut please remember our earth is fragile so LEAVE NO TRACE! Be sure to check the weather before beginning this adventure as summer thunderstorms in this area can be aggressive. Banff Sunshine. If youre looking for a stunning place to stake out camp by a lake, look no more! The Alpine Lakes is the largest wilderness area . 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. This is the most beautiful lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, and can be combined with Bear Lake and Emerald Lake. Expect to see some seriously stunning cascading waterfalls along the way. But what if I told you we havent been given access to over half of whats really out there? Come and try out the great hiking and mountain biking trails too! Bushnell lakes sit under Bushnell Peak and SE of Stout Lakes drainage. Trek beyond the lakes to reach the 14,065-foot summit of Humboldt Peak. Discover this alpine wonder by taking Rogers Pass Trail, a 9.1-mile out-and-back trail located near Rollinsville. The Loch is located at 10,200 ft in Rocky Mountain National Park. Upper Blue Lake is the third lake on Blue Lakes Trail. No dogs are allowed in the yurt over winter. Then, continue climbing to blue Lake at the base of Mt. The middle and upper are said to have the best views. Before you hit the trail, there are several important things to remember. 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. Print/PDF map. Bear Lake is a short walk from Bear Lake Trailhead and you can add a 0.6 mile loop around the lake to enjoy it more. If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. 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. And find our listings for off-road outfitters and tour companies here. The Upper Piney River trailhead begins at Piney Lake and winds through aspen meadows bursting with columbines, before passing by the cascading Piney Falls and ultimately leading to Upper Piney Lake at the headwaters of the Piney River just above 11,000.' Extend your time at this magnificent spot and camp at one of the campsites found around both lakes. No dogs. This route is delicate, so always practice Leave No Trace when visiting. 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. Wander the lake at sunrise for incredible views. To make this a longer adventure, you can keep the fun going all the way to Bear Lake. Encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world as you wind your way through an alpine wonderland, mountain reservoirs, beyond timberline, overtaking the clouds. On the way to Emerald Lake you will also pass Nymph Lake and Dream 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. 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. The water is piercingly clear blue, which will entice you to jump right in! Be cautious, however, as thunderstorms are quite common in the summertime. The 9.5-mile out-and-back trail located near Vail climbs nearly 3,000 feet in elevation before reaching the awe-inspiring mountain lake. Throughout the post youll find: Absolutely. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. This list of the 16 top destinations in the Southwest US will, Your email address will not be published. Youll be gasping for air from the steep inclines and incredible scenes. Primarily characterized as an alpine tundra region, its total distance is approximately 65 miles and can be completed in about 7 hours (or more), typically under normal circumstances. This short 6.5-mile round-trip trail boasts picturesque alpine lakes and stunning views of Pfeifferhorn. You will definitely want to wear hiking boots and bring trekking poles for this part of the trail. Cutthroats were originally named by William Clark on the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition. Maybird Lakes : Maybird Gulch is a rugged piece of the Lone Peak Wilderness in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Also, keep in mind there are restrictions on where you can walk, so be respectful of signs and regulations. This is one of the most iconic adventures in Colorado and for good reason! Photo: Ryan DewaneDistance: 8.43 milesElevation: 1780 ftType: Out-and-back. The picturesque lakes are tucked away near the mountains of Breckenridge. Sundial Peak over Lake Blanche. Dream Lake is a high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located east of the continental divide in northern Colorado. Make your way up the two-mile trail to the base of St. Marys Glacier (not really a glacier, but a permanent snowfield) where there is a picture-perfect alpine lake. Both alpine lakes sit at an elevation of about 11,000 feet. At this time, the 44 road to Blue Lakes requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to access when the gate is open during summer months (often late May through October), but there is talk . When it comes to alpine lakes, Colorado takes the cake and there is no place on earth like Mirror Lake. 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. Take the Wheeler trail until it intersects with Crystal Creek Road. Throughout the years Ive hiked well over 1,000 miles of terrain here in Colorado. And dont forget to look out for mountain goats! Grand Mesa Trails These gorgeous alpine lakes are set in a landscape that appears to be straight from a storybook, but is actually known as the James Peak wilderness. Expect to see wildlife like moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or elk along the trail, especially in the late spring and early summer. 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. 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. 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. 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. Distance: 23.8 milesElevation: 4,767 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are welcome to use this trail. Overall, this is a gentle hike with typical views, well worth the short trip if you are in the area. Start from the Bear Lake parking lot and hike the gentle trail towards Lake Haiyaha, passing through the alluring Emerald Lake. Dogs are welcome but keep them leashed, Im not kidding about the moose! Willow Lake offers a backpacking adventure into the Sangre de Cristo range. Camp at Twin Lakes White Star Campground. Set a check-in time and have that person try to check in with you first, before calling authorities (just in case you forget to circle back). Directions: From Colorado Springs take Hwy 24 west or, from Woodland Park take Hwy 24 east, to the Pikes Peak Highway exit in Cascade. Distance: 0.8 milesElevation: 32 feetDifficulty: Easy with accessibility rampsRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Like the name suggests, youll be in awe of the color of the deep blue waters. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Distance: 8.62 milesElevation: 2113 ftType: Out-and-back. 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.' Every experience in the outdoors can prove to be a learning opportunity. Be on the lookout for the moose who call this beautiful mountain landscape home! Scope out sweet views of Mont Massive and the mighty Sawatch Range (home to 14 of Colorados tallest peaks). Temperatures are often utterly freezing, since most alpine lakes are fed by snowmelt. . Just one valley over from Cyrstal Lake is Mohawk Lakes, another set of stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Theres no shortage of fantastic mountain and lake views. In terms of the best lake hikes, Colorado offers some incredibly unique lakes and the Hanging Lake hike takes the cake. Yes. 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. She'd rather be dirty than done up. This adventure leads you to one of Rocky Mountain National Parks deepest lakes (~50 ft deep). Arizona has many unique hiking opportunities with a wide range of elevation, climate, and views. From short day hikes close to the cityto multi-day backpacking tripsdeep in Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Colorado. Arrive early to get a spot and spend more of the day exploring! 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. This popular lake is located within Maroon Bells Wilderness Area. 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. Again, it depends. Backpack to three alpine lakes and an alpine lagoon in Roosevelt National Forest. This lake is known for the reflection you can see in the lake of 14,000 ft tall Maroon Peaks. that is degrading to another person. Lake Haiyaha is a stunning lake with clear teal water. Driving time: 4 to 6 hours. 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! This adventure will bring you by wide open meadows and plenty of wildlife (look out for moose and elk!) 5h 16m. 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. Although its hard to go wrong, heres a look at the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado for any ability level. Pass by Alberta Falls along this route before continuing up the trail through the gorge. The first lake on this trail is Lower Blue Lake, a clear bright blue lake within the Mount Sneffels Wilderness Area at 10,952 ft elevation. On July 21st, 2020, Skip, Bandit, Ezra, and I made our way from Colorado Springs, where we were visiting, up through Wyoming and Montana into Northern Idaho to visit family before heading back to Southern Idaho for work and school. Maroon Lake is one of the best lakes in Colorado. 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. Dont forget to turn left at the graves or youll pass right by the final push to Gore Lake! 17. This helps you beat those pesky thunderstorms and stay safe. Take the Glacier Gorge Trail up a steep, winding dramatic valley that terminates at the famed Sky Pond. Hike to the base of several Colorado 14ers at South Colony Lakes and enjoy one of the best hikes in Colorado. Learn more 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. What I love about this Colorado lake hike is just how quiet it is. If you're feeling extra adventurous, climb to the 14,433-foot summit of Mount Elbert. You can take a dip at Sprouting Rock in a stunning turquoise oasis found just behind Hanging Lake. 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. In the summer, this is one of the best and easiest lake hikes in Colorado. Where can I camp next to a lake near Denver? Check out our favorite alpine hikes in Colorado and neighboring states. Photo: Nicola EasterbyDistance: 3.06 milesElevation: 1168 ftType: Out-and-back. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. 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. Camping in dispersed camping areas gives you the opportunity for a little more privacy and peace and quiet. You can hike to this lake from either Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Trailhead. For the ultimate sunrise with majestic mountain peaks as the backdrop, this is just the right adventure. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). 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. Whenever you hear someone talk about catching trout in the mountain lakes of the Rockies, the term that often comes up is "alpine". When it comes to the best lake hikes in Colorado, this post has it all. Youll find over 2,000 alpine lakes in Colorado. Also, dont be an ass, you are not allowed to swim or climb around on the logs here. The Outbound Collective But if climbing a fourteener is not your bag, there's also a trail that leads to the jaw-dropping and some of the. Dispersed camping does take a little more planning, but the extra work will be well worth it. The drive from Crested Butte to Paonia passes West Beckwith Mountain, the best spot in the state to view foliage. Sky Pond is one of the most jaw-dropping sights to see. To get to the lake, you'll pass through two lakes Dream and Nymph. Its nine miles round trip, gaining about 1,780 feet of elevation. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by mind-blowing settings, these backcountry bodies of water are meant to be enjoyed. To extend your adventure, you can continue on to Isabelle Glacier. Most of the Alpine lakes lie in valleys that were formed during the uplift of the mountain chain of the Alps. From meadows found in the montane life zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover. . or drop a line and try your luck with some fishing. The fishing season for these high alpine lakes in Colorado is relatively short. Be Nice. Each of these alpine lake hikes brings you the best of the Rocky Mountains and picturesque mountain scenery of places like Leadville. The hike to this lake is an additional 0.7 miles from Lower Blue Lake but is very steep, with about 664 ft elevation gain. To see most of these incredible lakes in Colorado on one road trip, check out our Colorado Road Trip Itinerary. They are remote and wild, but also peaceful and pristine at the same time. Resting at an elevation of 9,450 feet, it may come as a surprise that this scenic lake is located just 250 feet from the parking lot. As one of the best lake hikes in Colorado, this strenuous 12-plus mile hike is best done in two days. Distance: 8.12 milesElevation: 2037 ftType: Out-and-back. Hike to Chasm Lake Photo: Kyle Frost Distance: 8.02 miles Elevation: 2500 ft Type: Out-and-back Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Since it's a relatively short hike, this is a great one for a family nature outing. Distance: 11 milesElevation: 2,529 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Lake Isabelle is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado (add about five miles round trip for the winter hike). Share your suggestions or stories in the comments! 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. Loop or Out and Back: Out and Back or Loop. Photo: Ryan MckinneyDistance: 4.09 milesElevation: 374 ftType: Out-and-back. Alta Lakes whip up an alpine lake hike with a twist. Tell someone about your plans. Pass by several waterfalls on your way to one of the most magnificent lakes in all of Colorado. Photographers will appreciate the remarkable sunrise and night shot opportunities. No dogs. This Rocky Mountain National Park adventure provides an opportunity to catch an unforgettable sunrise. Check with the Castle Mountain Recreation Company for more up-to-date information. 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. Bierstadt, and even Denver at times. For the best wildflowers, do this hike in late July. Both make for a relaxing day of fishing and casting with the family. Spalding. Chasm Lake makes for a beautiful summer adventure. Distance: 4.51 milesElevation: 1090 ftType: Out-and-back. Not many people venture to the mountain ranges down south, so expect lots of solitude. Lush alpine scenery unfolds as you ascend the 8.1-mile out-and-back trail nestled in the San Juan National Forest near Silverton. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The trail starts off steep, dropping into a valley before running flat, then climbing steeply up again. 8 to 4 miles Round TripElevation: Depends. "With an ample forage base such as scuds, crayfish, terrestrials, aquatic insects these fish can live 10 plus years and grow to very . 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. 1. On Monday and . 11 Alpine Lakes That Are Well Worth The Hike (And 1 Lake That You Can Drive To!) Cash fees may apply for accessing the area. The fee is $5 per person (16 years and older), children under 16 are free. The trail features colorful wildflower meadows, breathtaking views, and plenty of wildlife. 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. Nestled in Roosevelt National Forest, you can set foot on this adventure to three alpine lakes and a lagoon with the opportunity to pass by splendid waterfalls and wildflowers. This moderate hike is a great way to get the beautiful scenery of alpine lakes in Colorado without the lung-busting elevation gain. In fact, this is one of my favorite day hikes near Denver. But on your way there, take moments of rest to appreciate the view of Longs Peak to the south and Tyndall Creek. This scenic hike in Rocky Mountain National Park begins at the popular Glacier Gorge trailhead, but you can avoid the crowds by heading out later in the afternoon and be rewarded by an incredible sunset. 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.' Take in all the wondrous sights nature has to offer as you trek your way to Lake Agnes. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. 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. Famous for its year-round snow, the base of St Marys Glacier, is one of the most accessible alpine lakes in Colorado. Lake Isabelle is located 2.1 miles from the Long Lake Trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. These Colorado lake hikes deliver a bit more of a challenge, but that just makes the reward that much sweeter. If you are up for the challenge Island Lake is worth the visit! Twin Lakes Discover the solitude and beauty of Twin Lakes. Alpine Loop. It makes sense to combine the visit to Island Lake with Ice Lake, as Ice Lake is about 0.5 miles away. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. There are several camping spots by the second lake if youre looking to stay overnight. Error! OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Note that this hike does require permits, so be sure to reserve yours in advance to enjoy this fun summertime waterfall adventure! You'd better allow 7 hours to fully enjoy the scenic beauty, however. Related: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Like a Local. Pristine, beautiful waters often reflect dramatic mountain views. It connects the towns of Silverton and Ouray with Lake City, where it is generally considered to begin (and end). Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, the trail to access starts off at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. Continental Falls is a series of cascades dropping over 500 feet. If you want to stay in town, choose nearby Frantz Lake in Salida or Buena Vista Town Lake in McPhelemy Park. 1. 1. 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. The trail will end with a gorgeous view of Pitkin Lake. The best lakes in Colorado often require hard hikes to get to but that also means that you can enjoy them with less people. However, with that being said, its still worth a visit to gaze upon this magical fairytale lake. Think you need to be a hiking pro to enjoy amazing alpine lake hikes in Colorado? The freshwater lake is the perfect spot for boating or fishing. Jewel Lake is accessible by a three-mile hike and Clear Lake requires an eight-mile hike to get to. Photos (9,863) Directions. Get going on this adventure to the three beautiful Blue Lakes nestled among Colorados San Juan Range in the Uncompahgre National Forest. The snowpack is different every year, so its tough to say when trails will be snow-free. From Bear Lake Trailhead it is about 4.2 miles roundtrip with 840 ft elevation gain. UPPER & LOWER BUSHNELL LAKES. Table of Contents hide 1 Shadow Mountain Lake 2 Green Mountain Reservoir 3 Dream Lake 4 Two Rivers Lake 5 Crater Lake 6 Grand Lake 7 Lake Granby 8 Piney Lake 9 Sylvan Lake State Park 10 Twin Lakes 11 Lake Dillon 12 Blue Mesa Reservoir 13 Chatfield State Park Threats of harming another Bonus points if you summit one of the mountains! The wildflower lined trail is short and beautiful, clocking in at 2.1 miles round trip. . 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). The route shortens if you can make it up the burly 4-wheeling road. 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. Please note, reservations are required to visit the park. Ive been hiking in Colorado for over 13 years. 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. What does 2023 look like for gray wolf reintroduction? Distance: 2.8 miles round trip. 11. In the spring and early summer you can enjoy wildflowers on the hikes, and in the fall you get to see the Aspens fall foliage. They have recently been working in that area, so check with the Forest Service for recent conditions. If you love the wildflowers, don't miss the serene trek into Eagles Nest Wilderness to Gore Lake. This trail is well-used but has an interesting start as you make your way up next to and around a huge railway tunnel. the most part. There are other great trout reservoirs in the area, but only Spinney is a Gold Medal water. Pass by the popular Alberta Falls, but keep trekking to leave the crowds behind and find yourself in complete solitude in this vast and unbelievably beautiful wilderness. Here are 11 of the best swimming holes in Colorado, from pristine lakes to reservoirs, waterfall pools, and everything in between. This rather large lake is surrounded by pines with a dramatic mountain background. Editor's Note:Access to some of these lakes can vary due to a number of factors, including time of year. Distance: 3 milesElevation: 1,135 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: If you want a fighting chance at a less-crowded experience, go for sunrise. Located near Idaho Springs, St. Mary's Glacier is known for its alpine lake and, you guessed it, glacier. Our other most popular lakeside elopement locations in Colorado are Blue Lakes near Breckenridge and Lake Isabelle near Boulder. If you're looking for a large and yet completely natural lake, then Grand Lake is the place to be in Colorado. Make your way up the two-mile trail to the base of St. Mary's Glacier (not really a glacier, but a permanent snowfield) where there is a picture-perfect alpine lake.