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Potato Lake Trailhead: A Scenic Escape in the San Juan National Forest

Discover a tranquil mountain escape on the Potato Lake Trail near Durango, Colorado. Hike to a scenic lake with stunning views and abundant wildlife.

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Potato Lake Trailhead, near Durango, Colorado, provides access to a picturesque mountain lake via an easy-to-moderate 1-mile hike. Known for its stunning views and tranquil setting, it's a popular destination for hikers of all skill levels.

A brief summary to Potato Lake Trailhead

  • Durango, Colorado, 81301, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking at the trailhead is limited.
  • A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for driving on Lime Creek Road to the trailhead.
  • Bring your fishing gear and a valid Colorado fishing license to try your luck at catching trout in Potato Lake.
  • Pack bear spray and be aware of your surroundings, as bears and other wildlife frequent the area.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Durango, head north on Highway 550 for approximately 29 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 591, also known as Old Lime Creek Road, just past Cascade Village. Follow Lime Creek Road for about 3 miles to the trailhead, located on the left side of the road across from a beaver pond. Note that Lime Creek Road can be bumpy and rocky, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Parking is free but limited.

  • Walking

    From the parking area, the Potato Lake Trailhead is easily accessible. The trail is well-marked and gently climbs for approximately 1 mile to Potato Lake. The path is generally easy to follow, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. There are no fees or special transport required to access the trail.

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Discover more about Potato Lake Trailhead

Nestled in the San Juan National Forest, the Potato Lake Trailhead offers a serene escape into Colorado's mountainous beauty. The trail, also known as Spud Lake Trail by locals, leads to Potato Lake (also called Spud Lake), a scenic natural lake surrounded by mountain peaks. The 1-mile hike to the lake is rated as easy to moderate, with a small elevation gain, making it accessible for most. Once at Potato Lake, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. Fishing is a popular pastime, with opportunities to catch native cutthroat and brook trout. The area is also excellent for bird watching, with chances to spot hawks, grosbeaks, kinglets, and warblers. Wildlife enthusiasts may also encounter butterflies, beavers, squirrels, elk, deer, and even bears. The trail itself meanders through aspen glades and dense forests, offering views of Engineer Mountain, Grayrock Peak, and the Needle Mountains. The trailhead is located off Lime Creek Road, about 3 miles from Highway 550. While the road can be bumpy and rocky, it's generally manageable for most SUVs. Parking is limited at the trailhead, and there are no restrooms available. Dispersed camping is permitted near Potato Lake, following national forest regulations.

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