Blue Lakes Trailhead: Gateway to Alpine Majesty
Discover turquoise alpine lakes and breathtaking mountain views on this popular hiking trail near Telluride, Colorado. A Rocky Mountain paradise!
The Blue Lakes Trailhead serves as the starting point for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Located a short drive from Telluride, this trailhead provides access to the popular Blue Lakes Trail, which winds its way through the Mount Sneffels Wilderness. The trail climbs steadily through forests of spruce and fir, opening up to meadows with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The highlight of the Blue Lakes Trail is, of course, the three stunning alpine lakes. Each lake boasts a unique shade of turquoise, framed by rugged peaks like Dallas Peak and Mount Sneffels. The lower lake is the largest, with the middle and upper lakes offering more intimate settings and equally impressive views. The trail continues beyond the lakes, switchbacking up to Blue Lakes Pass for even more expansive vistas. The area is known for its vibrant displays of wildflowers in the summer months, adding to the already stunning scenery. Wildlife sightings are also common, with opportunities to spot deer and various bird species. The Blue Lakes Trail offers a variety of options for hikers of all skill levels, from a moderate day hike to the lower lake to a more strenuous trek to the upper lakes and Blue Lakes Pass.
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can be strenuous, especially if going to the upper lakes or Blue Lakes Pass.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Consider visiting during the wildflower season (mid-July to mid-August) for stunning displays of color.
- Check for trail conditions and possible closures before heading out, especially during the early and late seasons.
A brief summary to Blue Lakes Trailhead
- Blue Lakes Trail, Telluride, Colorado, 81435, US
- Visit website
Getting There
-
Driving
From Telluride, drive west on CO-145 for approximately 12.7 miles to Placerville. Turn right onto CO-62 East and continue for 18.6 miles to County Road 7, marked Dallas Creek. Turn right onto CR-7 and follow it for 9 miles to the trailhead. The road starts paved but quickly turns into dirt. The last few miles tend to get washed out a bit but with slow travel, there should not be issues getting to the TH. Parking is free. The parking lot can fit about 20 cars and on most weekends will be very busy. There is additional parking along the road, but always park responsibly and do not block the road from emergency vehicles accessing the trailhead.
