Blue Lakes Trail: Alpine Lakes Hiking Adventure in Colorado

Embark on a visually stunning journey through Colorado's Mount Sneffels Wilderness to explore the vivid turquoise waters of the Blue Lakes, set against the backdrop of majestic mountains.

Free (No permit or parking fees)
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Discover the breathtaking Blue Lakes Trail in Southwest Colorado, a jewel among alpine lake hikes offering mesmerizing turquoise waters and rugged mountain views. Embark on a visually stunning journey through Colorado's Mount Sneffels Wilderness to explore the vivid turquoise waters of the Blue Lakes, set against the backdrop of majestic mountains. The Blue Lakes Trail in Southwest Colorado is an unforgettable adventure for hikers of all levels. Nestled in the Mount Sneffels Wilderness, this trail covers a round trip distance of up to 12 miles, depending on how far you venture—to the lower lake, upper lakes, or the pass. Starting at an elevation of 9,370 feet, hikers can expect to reach heights up to 12,990 feet at the pass, with a total elevation gain of 3,600 feet. This moderate hike, requiring 4-6 hours to complete or a 2-day backpacking trip, is accessible from July through October, showcasing the vibrant turquoise hues of the alpine lakes and offering panoramic views of the rugged San Juan Mountains.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

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Itinerary

Start at the Blue Lakes Trailhead: Located just outside of Ridgeway, Colorado. Follow CO Rd 7 for about 9 miles to reach the trailhead.
Hike to the Lower Blue Lake: A 7-mile round trip from the trailhead, offering stunning views of the turquoise lake.
Continue to the Upper Lakes: For a 9-mile round trip, with an option to extend to the pass for a 12-mile journey.
Enjoy the Views: Take time at each lake to enjoy the unique beauty and snap photos.
Return: Follow the same path back to the trailhead.

Location

Blue Lakes Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424

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Packing List

Comfortable hiking boots or trail runners.
Water and snacks for the hike.
Layered clothing for variable weather.
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Camera or smartphone for photos.
Optional: Hiking poles, headlamp, GPS device.

4.9 ● Google reviews

Be advised, if going on the winter or within the month of April, you will want to find out what the condition of the road leading to the parking lot is like. My family and I went on 04/21/24, and it was completely filled with snow. You can hike in with proper gear, but whether it's worth the effort is up to you. There's also a "no motor vehicles" sign that was there. I'm not sure if this had always been or if it's because of the snow ridden path. All of that being said, this place is as amazing as pictures show it to be. Even without the hike, it still had one of the most beautiful vistas I've ever seen. I was also able to see an artic fox among other wildlife here. I would definitely recommend going at least for that.

Magnificent area! Driving up was a little bumpy but so worth it. Started out at the bottom and made our way up the left side of the lake in the trees. Nice, easy walk. Saw an old abandoned building. Went back around bottom and then up the road to the top of the dam where we saw two mountain goats. Next time will bring kayaks and camping gear to stay longer. Amazing location.

Alright alright guys!! After seeing all these reviews I was actually pretty nervous about driving up in my little 2014 Nissan Sentra but honestly I’m glad I did and now I’m able to share with y’all that it really wasn’t that bad like people make it seem. Maybe some of the reviewers are not used to dirt roads but seriously it’s not that bad, yes be careful if you have a lower vehicle and there 2 patches that’s have a steep incline when approaching the lake but it’s not THAT bad. If my little 2014 Nissan Sentra can make it, so can your so don’t even be scared, GO!! I arrived at 8am on a Saturday and half the parking lot was full so take that info as you will. It was amazing, the dam wasn’t super impressive, I did hike up to it but I enjoyed my time mostly by laying on a rock by the lake. Beautiful views, and of course mountain goats in the parking lot!!! DON’T FORGET THEY ARE WILD ANIMALS AND ARE SCARED OF YOU!! Yes get your pictures but give them a respectable distance because they will run away if you get too close :( Have fun y’all!!!

Wonderful short hiking experience for the entire family. Be prepared to either take your socks and shoes off or wear shoes you don't mind getting wet because there's a small shallow river you have to cross, which we did easily with a 2 and 8 year old simply by removing socks and shoes then putting them back on after we got across. Highly recommend!

Very cool spot to hike with options for the whole family. You can stay on the road and hike up a very mild grade to the dam, or circle around the lake and climb up the rocks around the waterfalls. In either case, you will have amazing views and plenty of goats to meet as they traverse between the high mountain bluffs and the lake below.

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