2-Day: Diamond Lake from Fourth of July TH

An easy out and back trip in the Indian Peaks Wilderness from Fourth of July TH to scenic waterfall and beautiful alpine lake. Total distance is 5.2 miles with 1,300 feet elevation gain.

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Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 2-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members:

Day 1 – From Fourth of July TH take Arapahoe Pass trail 904 for just over 1 mile and then left on Diamond Lake Trail 975 which drops elevation for a half-mile before crossing the North Fork of Middle Boulder Creek. Diamond Lake is located a mile further uphill from the bridge and scenic waterfall. This stretch of trail is on a northeast-facing slope and holds snow long after the Arapaho Pass Trail has melted dry. Turn west on a marked side trail to Diamond Lake. Camping at designated sites only. (2.6 miles, 1,050 feet up, 240 down)

Route Day 1

Day 2 - Hike out along same path as Day 1.

Optional 3-Day trip: Stay a lake an extra day to include hiking to Jasper Lake with a light pack, fishing, and relaxing at camp.

Permitting Requirements: Camping permits required for all overnight trips between June 1 and September 15. Overnight permits cost $5 per group, per trip from June 1 through September 15.

Driving: Stay on the main road through the town of Eldora. Once the pavement ends continue another five miles to the Fourth of July Trailhead. This portion of the road is rough but passable in a passenger car during the summer months. This trailhead is extremely busy, especially on weekends, and parking is limited.

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 5.2 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,300 ft
  • 10,967 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • Trails Illustrated 102
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  • 2-Day: Diamond Lake from Fourth of July TH
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