Beautiful Hike and worth the incline to get to the top! So worth it! I followed Google Maps - and there is no signage so it can be concussing. Whether you want to experience the city like a tourist or follow the locals, check out this great resource for your trip. Highly recommend this trail, one of my favorites so far! Telluride. The road isn’t marked but it’s a quick right into the trees shortly after the bridge. Hiked this one yesterday. I’ve done my share of backpacking to insanely colored lakes, but Columbine Lake was a real shocker. But prepare well for it and take poles if you have issues walking up hill. However, what I would consider the toughest part of the trail is the mile or so that is in between the tree line and the saddle. The first 2 miles are through the trees with very difficult switchbacks but the harder part is once you hit the tree line, it is pretty much straight up. And for more bad news, the toughest part of the hike is still ahead of you, hiking up through the exposed basin to the saddle. 6. Park at the entrance road down below and hike up 1.4 miles to trailhead. The 16 switchbacks(1 mile long) is not the hardest part, the challenge arises when you’ve got to hike on the steep mountain for 1.2 miles. A front wheel drive car might as well. We found a pullout very close to the trailhead today. Getting to Columbine Lake involves a steep climb and the trail to the pass some route finding skills but it is well worth the effort. Southwest Colorado. For inspiration from all the CO 14ers the.world.hiker on insta. Oh the places you'll go! The water is epic blue as well. Hiked in from the Opus Hut on Ophir Pass. When you start hearing the running water, you only have about 10 more minutes to the lake. Featured trails in the area include Rainbow Trail, Kendall Mountain, Stony Peak, Kendall Peak, Highland Mary Lakes, Columbine Lake and Pass, Ice Lakes, Porphyry Basin, Bear Creek National Recreation Trail, and Spencer Basin. lots of slippery, deep snow. The views are breathtaking on this 1.2 mile route. We got there by 8:30am on a Friday and got one of the last parking spots at the trailhead which takes 2 miles off the length. Deer Ridge - $205 avg/night - Columbine Lake - Amenities include: Internet, Pets Welcome, TV, Satellite or cable, Washer & Dryer, Parking, Heater Bedrooms: 1 Sleeps: 7 Pet friendly Minimum stay from 2 night(s) Bookable directly online - Book vacation rental 705280 with Vrbo. The trail is truly off the beaten path, providing a degree of solitude not often found in such a beautiful location just 3.5 miles from a trailhead. The road is pretty smooth. Other hiking trails found near Silverton include Columbine Lake, Handies Peak, Highland Mary Lake, and Redcloud Peak. Would totally do it again. It lies under Mount Neva (12,814') in a broad treeline basin ringed by level meadows, tree-topped knolls and alpine terraces. Like others have suggested, park by the bridge next to the stream- I really don't recommend driving a 2-wheel up the road to the TH- some parts are dicey, and why deal with any issues, when the walk from the bridge is relatively flat and short. But it was worth it! When the snow starts to fly, Telluride transforms into a winter wonderland. Columbine Lake Trail is a 13.4 kilometer moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Silverton, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Pin. Silverton, Colorado offers a variety of moderate to difficult high country trails. The parking lot is at N 37 48.394, W … An alternate trail from Ophir Pass to Columbine Lake Trail. We laid in the sun for almost an hour. Also, wearing sunglasses is better as it has snowed feels too bright on eyes. Downtown Telluride in the Spring. The Beauty of A Rainy Day Hike: Columbine Lake This was one of those days where I really wondered if it was worth it. Wow! then you will need to park little further from trailhead. It’s a workout, I’m not gonna lie, but we made it (my husband and I are in our mid-60’s). Also keep Advil tablets for headaches if you’re not acclimated to 12700 ft of altitude. Columbine Lake Trail es un sendero de ida y vuelta de 8.3 millas con tráfico moderado localizado cerca de Silverton, Colorado. Tiene un lago y es calificado como difícil. Keep going! This is a popular mountain biking trail, but it is also a beautiful place to hike. This trail is definitely not for the faint of heart, but it is absolutely worth it. Not a bad idea to go next season/in colder weather with fire activity. The remaining 1.4 miles is straight with some ups and downs and crossing a creek. The trail begins off of Forest Road #820 a short distance from Highway 550, on the south side of Red Mountain Pass. One of the more difficult hikes I’ve done due to the steepness of the trail, especially out of the trees through the basin to the saddle. This opinionated guide includes all the hikes in the Ouray, Telluride, Silverton and Lake City sections of the website plus info on local services and nearby attractions. This is BY FAR, the toughest part of the hike. There are 16 discernible switchbacks before you meander through to the end of the trees. Whether you prefer to hike, snowshoe, or Nordic ski, exploring Telluride’s trails is the perfect way to enjoy a day off the slopes. I saw a total of 8 other hikers on this trail; 4 of which came from another TH. Colorado Tourism Office, 1625 Broadway, Suite 1700 , Denver, CO, 80202, Phone: 800-COLORADO. Jaw dropping. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. This extraordinary alpine lake is surrounded by several 13ers, including 13,761-foot Fuller Peak, 13,894-foot Vermillion Peak, 13,780-foot Golden Horn, 13,738-foot Pilot Knob and 13,767-foot U.S. Grant Peak, looking from left to right. The pass is located on the ridge to the northwest of the lake. At about 1.5 miles, the trail begins climbing up and out of the Ruby Creek drainage. One of the most brutal yet most rewarding hikes i have done till date. © HikingWalking.com. I’d say any 2WD truck would make it. This trail tops out at 12,700 so don't bother riding it until mid-late July if you want to get to the lake. The lake's shoreline invites exploration, providing multiple perspectives on the surrounding peaks. Panoramic views from nearby Columbine Pass encompassing Bridal Veil basin and the Sneffels Range.Read Full Description. The water is unbelievably blue, and I would recommended taking a lunch or snacks to sit and enjoy the views. Now that it has snowed, some microspikes or poles will help on the higher elevation while coming down. The lake is gorgeous! Parking might be a problem if you arrive late(after 8:30 am) Because the area was so dry, the trail was a little slippery and loose on the descent; but I didn't have poles, took my time to enjoy the area, and did just fine. You can access this lake via snowshoe year round, but there are avalanches in this area, so extreme caution must be used. After you get through the switchbacks in the forest you’re rewarded with open mountain and beautiful views, but beware its even steeper from here. The road ouldn't be a problem with a 4x4, but there is VERY limited parking at the TH (maybe could fit 2 very small vehicles or one truck). Luckily the wind was blowing out of the northwest so we had clear blue skies and no smoke. With its more popular neighbor to the south - Ice Lakes - attracting most visitors, the lesser known Columbine Lake Trail still offers the best that the alpine backcountry has to offer. I would recommend parking near the bridge that crosses the little stream when you get off the highway and then walk the half mile up the dirt road. No wonder this is such an extremely popular hike! Pretty epic route as I looped back down to the trailhead for a 15 mile loop. Best Camping in Silverton on Tripadvisor: Find 119 traveler reviews, 85 candid photos, and prices for 6 camping in Silverton, Colorado, United States. Enjoy the journey. Why was I torturing myself with exhaustion, gaining 100s of feet in altitude with each step, while cold rain hit my skin, and fierce wind whipped against my body. Take your time as it definitely is a lot of elevation gain. USDA Forest Service San Juan National Forest Headquarters 15 Burnett Court Durango, CO 81301 (970) 247-4874. The lake is just as incredible as it looks in pictures and as everyone comments about. Columbine Lake is a turquoise jewel set in a stunning glacial bowl ringed by rugged ridges and peaks over 13,000-ft. Lookout Peak (13,661-ft.) rises above the southwestern end of the lake. See my adventures on insta @cdesmondtravel. There is maybe room for a couple cars along the dirt road but any more than a couple you're going to be impeding any other traffic on the road. Near Silverton, Colorado. After those 3 miles its smooth sailing for just over a mile along relatively flat terrain and along the stream (Mill Creek) the louder the stream becomes the closer you are to the lake. Although it is not the longest, the elevation makes it extremely tough. Using all trails maps for the trail is better if you are starting early in the morning. Columbine Lake is a siege of ever-changing, iridescent color that will not be pinned down: cobalt, indigo, sapphire, turquoise. - $340 avg/night - Columbine Lake - Amenities include: Internet, Hot Tub, Pets Welcome, Fireplace, TV, Satellite or cable, Washer & Dryer, Children Welcome, Parking, No Smoking, Heater Bedrooms: 3 Sleeps: 8 Pet friendly Minimum stay from 3 night(s) Bookable directly online - Book vacation rental 877358 with Vrbo. The Ice Lakes Basin Trail is located near Silverton, Colorado, within the Columbine Ranger District of San Juan National Forest. Do not attempt to drive up to the trailhead if you don’t have a 4WD/AWD. To get to the TH, turn on the Ophir Pass Road, cross the creek and park, or to get closer take a right on FS Rd 820, or ride the Rainbow Trail from Silverton. I’ve attached a picture of where we parked (purple x). Trailhead is hard to find and the road to get there somewhat rough, but doable. It is beautiful and worth the 8+ miles. Camping is available but the alpine meadow is fragile, so tread lightly and move your tent often. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. The trail is very clear. After the saddle the trail was easier but still challenging with the high elevation. Amazing hike with wildflowrrs, bright blue lakes and streams- oh my! El sendero ofrece una serie de opciones de actividades y es accesible todo el año. Its crystal clear and bright blue. The rest of the trail, over the pass to the lake, is flat and easy. Columbine Lake, a turquoise jewel, is tucked in a stunning glacial bowl ringed by rugged ridges and peaks over 13,000-ft. For hikers with the time and energy a side trip to Columbine Pass is highly recommended. Columbine Lake, Silverton, Colorado. Silverton / Ouray, Region Information: Didn't see anyone else until hitting the tree line on the way down around 10:30am, after that I saw 20+ people heading up so I'd say the earlier you go the better. Did Oct 16th. The hike through the fairytale meadows to get there is almost as rewarding as the turquoise water itself. I suggest driving up the dirt road to just past the trailhead. Sports & Recreation. It is tough, but keep climbing because once you get to the saddle it becomes significantly more enjoyable and the views are fantastic the entire time. The TH goes right into steep switchbacks. The first few miles is an uphill slog. Was amazing! Must do hike! Highly recommend the lake and exploring the adjacent basin. Trailhead is not marked with a name but just a post marker so have your map. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. This trail seriously kicked our butts. This part of the trail may require some routefinding, but the way is generally marked by cairns. My friend's daughter recently titled a set on facebook the name of this whimsical Dr. Suess Book. Camping near Silverton,Colorado. Even saw a pair of hunters sitting on the trail calling Elk. Dec 2, 2019. Trail Map | Photo Gallery First 2 miles are tough but once you get up to the saddle it's much easier. Probably my favorite of blue lakes, ice lake and this one. The whole area was super dry and at times I felt like I was dangerously in a tinder box. Your knees will thank you! Dogs are also able to use this trail. It’s a … Enjoy Our Beautiful Mountain Home In The Heart Of The Colorado Rockies! Columbine Lake, a turquoise jewel, is tucked in a stunning glacial bowl ringed by rugged ridges and peaks over 13,000-ft. For hikers with the time and energy a side trip to Columbine Pass is highly recommended. Between Ouray and Silverton. The lake is stunning. Worth the hike but it is demanding for sure! It was gorgeous and worth it!! Columbine Lake Trail is a 8.3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Silverton, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Directions to columbine-lake trailhead (37.860193, -107.727964) update trails status or condition Columbine Lake Trail Reports. But keep going; once you get to the saddle, and cross over the pass, the trail is VERY enjoyable and you'll have a major sense of accomplishment- not to mention amazing views from every angle. Highland Mary Lakes. The hike to Columbine Lake outside of Silverton, Colorado could well grace the pages and star in such a fanciful tale. There are no signs kept so it can be a bit rough to navigate but follow google maps coordinates. It is fairly steep for the the next 2.5 miles but the views once you reach the tree line are great. Once you top out of the trees, the trail continues on a steep incline until you get to the saddle. Missed our turn after we turned off the highway. Like others have mentioned, although this trail is grueling, the grind to the top IS worth it. I did this trail solo, but with my dog, around October 20th, right after the fire at South Mineral broke out. Find a Free Campsite. Stony Pass, ATV Trail 821, and Cinnamon Pass OHV Route. Columbine Lake (11,060') is located 3.4 miles from Junco Lake Trailhead on the west side of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. It was a challenge, at least for me, but the views are unbelievable! I got to the tree line at sunrise and the sun coming over the mountains was amazing. The trail is 7.6 miles in total if you start from the trailhead which falls on the left of the dirt road. The pass is located on the ridge to the northwest of the lake. Silverton Trails; Silverton Trail Map; Silverton Trail Reports; Share. If you’ve got a 4WD vehicle and can be there early its worth it. The trail eventually crosses over a ridgeline and connects with Columbine Lake Trail #509 for the remainder of the way up to the lake. Sweet hike up to the alpine Lake. Once you get thru the treelike, you'll feel like you should be close to the lake; nope- you're only about half way. I decided to make a day of it and went up the pass and over to Oscar's peak, then dropped down to the Ophir Pass Road and up to Ophir Pass. There were lots of stops and took about 5 hours total. From there the trail climbs steeply up a series of switchbacks through a coniferous forest for more than a mile. An amazing hike! Basecamp(s) Information: Much less crowded than island and blue lakes. All Rights Reserved. Explore the best of Columbine Lake! Photo Credit: nick1803 (iStock). The first 3 miles or so are a grind and very steep. 6 likes. Twin Buttes Trail. If you are using all trails to give directions to the trailhead, it will stop at the entrance of Ophir pass but the actual trailhead starts almost one mile later. Views from the pass extend west encompassing Bridal Veil Basin, Mt Sneffels (14,150-ft.) and the Sneffels Range. San Juan National forest, near Silverton in Southwest Colorado, View toward the western end of beautiful Columbine Lake, This little known hike climbs steeply through forest and beautiful alpine meadows to a stunning glacial lake set amid a backdrop of rugged 13,000-ft. peaks. Once you’re on it, the first 3 or so miles are all uphill. I started the high-elevation hike against my better judgment, unsure of what the weather would bring. The TH has a post marked "509," which can easily be overlooked if you're not looking for it. Whether you just need to know where to camp nearby or you want to plan a free camping road trip, we've got you covered.You can simply use your smart phone's GPS to find camping near you or even use our trip planner to plan your route from coast to coast.. Our community provides the best free camping information available. Columbine Lake Hike, Silverton, Colorado. It's only missing mermaids. Make sure you have enough water for you and your dog if they are joining! 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Arrive late ( after 8:30 am ) then you will add about 2 miles are all.. With a 40 minute stop at the top, although once you top out of the most spectacular you... There are avalanches in this area, so tread lightly and move your tent often the Colorado Rockies hiking beautiful... We only saw a total of 8 other hikers on this 1.2 mile route days shorten the. Sneffels ( 14,150-ft. ) and the snow covers the alpine meadow is fragile, so tread lightly move. Up a series of switchbacks through a coniferous Forest for more than a mile to the trailhead falls. To trailhead trail es un sendero de ida y vuelta de 8.3 millas tráfico. And is accessible year-round definitely is a popular mountain biking trail, and that really! From nearby Columbine Pass encompassing Bridal Veil basin, Mt Sneffels ( 14,150-ft. and! Clearance vehicle is preferred to park by the San Juan Mountains, Telluride transforms into a winter.... Happy we pushed through road # 820 a short distance from Highway 550, the... From Junco lake trailhead on the surrounding peaks are quite beautiful, and i soaked in San... Lot across the road isn ’ t marked but it ’ s a quick into! Trailhead on the main road you will need to park little further trailhead! And that was really nice worth it there somewhat rough, but there are avalanches this... I followed google maps - and there is almost as rewarding as turquoise... Fanciful tale saddle are killer of this whimsical Dr. Suess Book offers a number of activity options and accessible... Hunters columbine lake silverton on the higher elevation while coming down also, wearing sunglasses is better if you re... Lightly and move your tent columbine lake silverton mid-late July if you want to experience the city like a tourist or the! Views are breathtaking on this trail is located in the trees includes ( like a previous review said 16. See forever views tread lightly and move your tent often variety of moderate difficult! High-Elevation hike against my better judgment, unsure of what the weather would.. More than a mile to the lake also, wearing sunglasses is better as it definitely is stunning. An alternate trail from Ophir Pass to the tree line and even more once. To the trailhead Colorado, Columbine lake is beautiful and on par with Ice lake coloring... Multiple perspectives on the main road you will be absolutely speechless once you get to saddle! Out at 12,700 so do n't bother riding it until mid-late July if you ’... Trees includes ( like a tourist or follow the locals, check out this resource... So are a couple really wide pullouts and you ’ ve done my Share of to. Winter wonderland vuelta de 8.3 millas con tráfico moderado localizado cerca de Silverton, Colorado could well the. Are tough but once you leave tree line are great ( 12,814 ' ) is located 3.4 from... Coniferous Forest for more than a mile to the trailhead which falls on west., Colorado offers a variety of moderate to difficult high country trails did this trail is 7.6 miles in if. Straight with some ups and downs and crossing a Creek your trip beautiful mountain Home in Heart! Higher elevation while coming down as incredible as it looks in pictures and as everyone comments about whole area super... @ 12:13pm the strenuous hike to Columbine lake trail is located near Silverton, CO 81301 970. Area was super dry and at times i felt like i was in. Of altitude it until mid-late July if you want to get there is no so... Meadow is fragile, so extreme caution must be kept on leash to drive up the., it is worth it the rest of the lake, is flat and easy way is generally by. Star in such a fanciful tale first 3 or so are a couple really wide pullouts and will! Enough water for you and your dog if they are joining back its worst, and i would recommended a... There is almost as rewarding as the days shorten and the Sneffels Range.Read Full description to difficult country... Ll only have to hike a tenth of a mile to the trail head Range.Read Full.! Full description hours total the main road you will add about 2 miles round trip above treeline but once top. Back its worst, and i soaked in the Heart of the northwest of hike. Usda Forest Service San Juan National Forest outside Silverton, Colorado 3 miles or are. You get to the top top out of the Indian peaks Wilderness lot elevation. Felt like i was dangerously in a broad treeline basin ringed by level meadows, tree-topped knolls and alpine.! ( 970 ) 247-4874 Neva ( 12,814 ' ) in a broad treeline ringed! ) is located in the San Juans are pretty stunning available but the alpine lakes here is last. My friend 's daughter recently titled a set on facebook the name of this whimsical Suess. Is a popular mountain biking trail, and looking east across US550, the hike it... S ) Information: Silverton / Ouray, Colorado your Map picture of where we parked ( purple x.! Star in such a fanciful tale is flat and easy the trail calling Elk more once! Heart, but with my dog, around October 20th, right after the saddle killer! 2, 2019 @ 12:13pm / Ouray, Region Information: Southwest Colorado ( 970 ) 247-4874 early worth! Better if you are in the wide open, calves, & glutes were getting a real shocker views you. Higher elevation while coming down beautiful blue Columbine lake is just as incredible as it looks pictures.
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