Colorado is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and its alpine lakes are no exception. With thousands of lakes scattered throughout the state, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to visit. To help you plan your next adventure, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 15 most beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado. Let’s dive in!
1. Emerald Lake
Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Emerald Lake is a must-see. The hike to this picturesque spot is short and easy, and along the way, you’ll also encounter Bear Lake and Dream Lake, both of which are equally stunning. If you’re up for more exploration, consider visiting Sky Pond or Chasm Lake while you’re in the park.
2. Lake Isabel
Just a short drive from Denver, Lake Isabel in the Brainard Lake Basin is a breathtaking destination. The roundtrip hike to the lake is about six miles, and you’ll pass by the beautiful Brainard Lake and Long Lake on your way.
3. Mohawk Lakes
Near Breckenridge, the Mohawk Lakes offer a scenic hike starting at the Spruce Creek Trailhead. The trail takes you past Continental Falls and lower Mohawk Lakes before reaching Upper Mohawk Lake, which is about 5.5 miles out and back. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are three more lakes as you hike down the trail.
4. Crater Lake
Accessible from the Monarch Lake Trailhead near Grand Lake. Crater Lake is a stunning destination. The hike from Monarch Lake is just over seven miles one way, while the route from the Brainard Lake Basin is about 8.5 miles. This area is popular for backpacking, so be prepared for an adventure!
5. Ice Lake
Located near Silverton in Southwest Colorado, Ice Lake is one of the most beautiful hikes you can take. The roundtrip loop is approximately seven miles and showcases where you will be surrounded by waterfalls, wildflowers and Island lake. This is a hike you won’t want to miss!
6. Missouri Lakes
Near Minturn, the Missouri Lakes can be accessed via an 8.5-mile out-and-back trail that is mostly difficult. The effort is well worth it for the stunning views, great for backpacking.
7. Chihuahua Lake
Chihuahua Lake is accessible via a 7.5-mile roundtrip hike from the Chihuahua Trailhead near Keystone. The trail is somewhat challenging, but the beauty of the lake makes it all worthwhile.
8. Willow Lakes
From the Willowbrook Trailhead in Silverthorne, you can access the beautiful Willow Lakes. This hike is about 11.5 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,600 feet, so come prepared for a workout!
9. Blue Lakes
Nestled below Mount Sneffels near Ridgeway, the Blue Lakes require a 6.5-mile roundtrip hike. The stunning scenery makes this hike a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, it is also fairly popular.
10. James Peak
You can explore Ice Lake and many more lakes when hiking to the top of James Peak from St. Mary’s Glacier. This hike is about eight miles roundtrip, but you can shorten the trip if you take a 4×4 vehicle to Loch Lomond Reservoir.
11. Maroon Lake
Easily accessible by car or public bus, Maroon Lake sits below the iconic Maroon Bells. For a better view, take a 3.5-mile out-and-back hike from Maroon Lake to Crater Lake, located at the base of the Bells.
12. Anderson Lake
Located near Aspen on Independence Pass, Anderson Lake and its neighbor Petroleum Lake can be reached from Grizzly Reservoir. The hike is about 9 to 10 miles roundtrip, but if you have a good 4×4 vehicle, you can shorten the distance significantly. To get to the reservoir may also take a 4×4 or high clearance vehicle.
13. Twin Crater Lakes
In Northern Colorado near Walden, the Twin Crater Lakes are about a 13-mile roundtrip hike from the West Branch Trailhead. This area is great for backpacking, with more lakes to discover.
14. Columbine Lake
Just over a six-mile roundtrip hike from the Million Dollar Highway on the Columbine Trailhead, you’ll find Columbine Lake, with the bluest waters I have ever seen.
15. Lake Agnes
Situated in State Forest State Park, Lake Agnes requires a short but steep 1.6-mile roundtrip hike. Don’t forget to grab a state park pass before you go!
Bonus Lakes
Before we wrap up, I’d like to mention a few runner-ups: Silver Lake, known for its ghost towns, and Vallecito Lake, both of which can be difficult to access but are worth the effort. For easily accessible alpine lakes near the Front Range, check out Last Dollar Lake and Herman Gulch near Idaho Springs.
Gear Recommendations
Before embarking on your adventures in the Camp Hale Continental Divide National Monument, make sure you’re equipped with the right gear. Below are some recommendations based on my years of testing:
- Darn Tough Socks: Made in Vermont, these socks are warm, cozy, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
- Grayl Water Filters: I’ve relied on these filters for hundreds of miles of backpacking, ensuring clean drinking water on the go.
- Latitude 40 Maps: Created right here in Colorado, these maps are the most accurate and detailed for the Colorado and Utah areas.
I would never suggest a product that I haven’t used vigorously over many years.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a scenic spot to relax, Colorado’s alpine lakes offer
If you want to see more of Colorado, be sure to check out my free map on this site or visit my You tube page, you can see a video on this exact topic here.
