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Crater Lakes


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Crater Lakes

The beautiful Crater lakes provide an opportunity to enjoy some of the best views of the James Peak Wilderness area. Suitable for day hiking, snowshoeing or a short backpacking trip. The full distance including hike to the upper lake is 7.4 roundtrip with 1,870 elevation gain. The final hike to the upper lake requires scrambling.

The trip starts at the East Portal Trailhead located at the end of Gilpin County Road 16.  The first two miles are a gradual climb but the terrain gets steeper.  After about 2.8 miles arrive at the lower lakes with beautiful mountain views.  The final portion of the hike to the upper alpine lake is the most challenging and involves rock scrambling.

  • Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Hiking, Scrambling, Snowshoeing
  • Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
  • Seasons: Year-round
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Length: 7.4 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,870 ft
  • 11,127 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    James Peak Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • caltopo
  • https://caltopo.com/map.html#ll=39.90822,-105.66736&z=14&b=mbt&a=c
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  • Crater Arapahoe Lakes Lariat
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