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, near Telluride, Colorado, provides access to a stunning trail system leading to three turquoise alpine lakes nestled in the Mount Sneffels Wilderness. It's a popular destination for hikers seeking breathtaking mountain scenery and pristine alpine environments.
A brief summary to Blue Lakes Trailhead
- Blue Lakes Trail, Telluride, Colorado, 81435, US
- Visit website
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.
Getting There
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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.
Discover more about Blue Lakes Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
West Gold Hill Dinosaur Trackway
10.9 km
Explore the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Trackway, a unique historical landmark in Colorado showcasing ancient dinosaur footprints amidst stunning natural beauty.
Ouray Silver Mines, Inc
11.2 km
Explore the rich history of silver mining amidst the majestic beauty of the San Juan Mountains at Ouray Silver Mines.
Hot Springs Inn
11.6 km
Discover relaxation and adventure at Hot Springs Inn, a cozy motel in Ouray, Colorado, surrounded by stunning mountain views and natural hot springs.
Black Bear Manor
11.7 km
Discover the charm of Ouray, Colorado, with a stay at Black Bear Manor, your perfect bed and breakfast retreat amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Ouray Dog Park
11.7 km
Discover the beauty of Ouray Dog Park, a perfect getaway for dog lovers amidst the stunning scenery of Colorado's San Juan Mountains.
The Lumber Yard Condos
11.7 km
Experience comfort and adventure at The Lumber Yard Condos, the perfect getaway in the heart of Ouray, Colorado's stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs
11.8 km
Experience relaxation and adventure at Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs, your gateway to the natural wonders of Ouray, Colorado.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center
11.8 km
Explore the soothing beauty of Ouray Hot Springs Pool, where relaxation meets the majestic San Juan Mountains in Colorado.
Mineshaft Bar, Restaurant, and Pizzeria
11.8 km
Discover the flavors of Ouray at Mineshaft Bar, Restaurant, and Pizzeria, where delicious pizzas and a cozy atmosphere await you.
Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs
11.8 km
Discover serenity and adventure at Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs in Ouray, Colorado, where natural beauty meets relaxation in the heart of the Rockies.
The Clipper Inn - Bed & Breakfast
11.8 km
Discover the enchanting charm of The Clipper Inn in Ouray, Colorado, where comfort meets adventure in the stunning San Juan Mountains.
Switzerland of America Jeeps
11.9 km
Experience breathtaking off-roading adventures in Ouray, Colorado, with Switzerland of America Jeeps – perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Ouray Hot Springs
11.9 km
Experience the rejuvenating waters of Ouray Hot Springs, a natural oasis nestled in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.
San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours
11.9 km
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of Ouray, Colorado, in comfort and style.
Gold Belt Bar & Grill
11.9 km
Discover the charm of Gold Belt Bar & Grill in Ouray, Colorado, where delicious grilled meals meet stunning mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Sneffels Wilderness
6.9 km
Explore Colorado's majestic Mount Sneffels Wilderness: a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts seeking alpine adventure.
Cornet Falls
10.3 km
Discover Cornet Falls: A quick, scenic hike to a stunning waterfall in Telluride's breathtaking red rock canyon.
Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail
10.5 km
Hike the Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail for breathtaking Telluride views and a tribute to a local trail-blazing hero. A moderately challenging 3.1-mile loop.
Telluride Historical Museum
10.7 km
Explore Telluride's vibrant past at the Historical Museum, from mining boom to mountain resort, in a beautifully restored landmark building.
Telluride Free Box
10.9 km
Experience Telluride's unique culture of sharing and sustainability at the Free Box, a community exchange where you can give and receive freely.
Telluride, Downtown
10.9 km
Explore Telluride's historic downtown: Victorian charm, vibrant culture, and stunning mountain scenery in a National Historic Landmark.
Telluride Arts
10.9 km
Experience Telluride's thriving arts scene: galleries, events, and support for local and regional artists.
Alpine Chapel
11.0 km
A serene chapel in Telluride, Colorado, offering spiritual solace and community in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.
Downtown Telluride - Historic Colorado Ave
11.0 km
Experience the charm of Telluride's Historic Colorado Avenue: Victorian architecture, boutique shopping, and a vibrant mountain culture.
Telluride Jeep Tours
11.0 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Telluride, Colorado, with unforgettable Jeep tours exploring breathtaking mountain views and hidden gems.
Telluride Adventures
11.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures with Telluride Adventures, your premier travel agency in Colorado's mountain paradise.
Voodoo Studios
11.1 km
Explore Voodoo Studios in Telluride, a vibrant hub of creativity and local artistry, perfect for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Town Park
11.3 km
Experience the heart of Telluride: recreation, festivals, and stunning mountain views at the iconic Telluride Town Park.
Bear Creek Trail
11.3 km
Hike to a stunning waterfall on this popular and accessible trail in Telluride's scenic Bear Creek Preserve and the Uncompahgre National Forest.
Box Cañon Falls Park
11.5 km
Discover the raw power and serene beauty of Box Cañon Falls, a natural wonder nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains near Ouray, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Mountain Top Social
10.2 km
Experience delectable cuisine with stunning mountain views at Mountain Top Social in Ridgway, Colorado.
Rustico Ristorante
11.0 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Rustico Ristorante in Telluride—where fine dining meets stunning mountain scenery.
221 South Oak
11.1 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine at 221 South Oak in Telluride, where culinary creativity meets local flavors.
Ouray Riverside Resort • Cabins & Inn & RV Park
11.4 km
Discover your mountain retreat at Ouray Riverside Resort - where adventure meets tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Smokehouse @ Ouray Riverside Resort
11.5 km
Discover delicious barbecue and breathtaking views at The Smokehouse @ Ouray Riverside Resort – a must-visit dining destination in Colorado.
La Pizzeria
11.7 km
Experience the best of Italy with delicious pizzas and authentic dishes at La Pizzeria in scenic Telluride.
Mi Mexico Family Mexican restaurant
11.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in Ouray at Mi Mexico Family Mexican Restaurant—where family dining meets vibrant culinary traditions.
The Saloon at The Western Hotel
11.8 km
Experience the charm and history of Ouray at The Saloon at The Western Hotel, where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.
The Drinking Cup
11.9 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at The Drinking Cup in Ouray - where local flavors meet cozy mountain charm.
Snowie Colorado
11.9 km
Experience the best frozen treats at Snowie Colorado in Ouray - where every bite is a sweet adventure amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Thai Chili Restaurant Ouray Colorado
11.9 km
Discover delicious Thai cuisine in Ouray, Colorado—where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Ouray Wine Garden
11.9 km
Discover culinary excellence at Ouray Wine Garden with breathtaking mountain views and a curated selection of fine wines.
Taste Ouray
11.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Taste Ouray - where local flavors meet creative cuisine in the heart of Colorado's scenic beauty.
Kami's Samis
11.9 km
Discover the best breakfast and lunch at Kami's Samis in Ouray - where delicious sandwiches meet stunning mountain views.
The Yankee Girl Restaurant
11.9 km
Experience the charm of The Yankee Girl Restaurant in Ouray—where delightful breakfasts meet cozy lunches amidst stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Clarks Market Telluride
10.8 km
Discover the freshest local produce and gourmet delights at Clarks Market Telluride, your go-to grocery store in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Sit, Stay, Shop!
10.9 km
Discover unique treasures while supporting animal welfare at Sit, Stay, Shop! in beautiful Telluride, Colorado.
Denimaxx
10.9 km
Discover fashionable outdoor clothing at Denimaxx in Telluride, Colorado, and gear up for unforgettable adventures in the Rockies.
Bella Fine Goods Telluride
10.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted furniture, art, and jewelry at Bella Fine Goods, a charming boutique in the heart of Telluride, Colorado.
Gold Mountain Gallery
10.9 km
Explore Gold Mountain Gallery in Telluride for an exquisite collection of contemporary art, unique furniture, and stunning oriental rugs.
Crossbow Telluride: Handcrafted Leather Goods & Custom Hats
10.9 km
Explore Crossbow Telluride for handcrafted leather goods and custom hats, capturing the essence of Western craftsmanship in every piece.
Two Skirts
10.9 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Two Skirts in Telluride, where style meets the spirit of the mountains.
Alpine Wellness
10.9 km
Discover the healing power of cannabis at Alpine Wellness in Telluride, where nature meets wellness in the heart of the mountains.
HOOK
10.9 km
Explore HOOK, Telluride's unique boutique offering locally crafted treasures and a delightful shopping experience amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Green Dragon Weed Dispensary Telluride
10.9 km
Experience the essence of Colorado's cannabis culture at Green Dragon Weed Dispensary in Telluride, where quality meets community.
Paradise Resortwear
10.9 km
Explore Paradise Resortwear in Telluride for stylish, resort-inspired clothing perfect for your mountain adventures and leisurely days.
Down To Earth
11.0 km
Explore Down To Earth in Telluride for stylish women's clothing and accessories that embody the spirit of Colorado's mountain town.
Telluride Trappings & Toggery
11.0 km
Explore the best in fashion and outdoor gear at Telluride Trappings & Toggery, a must-visit shopping destination in stunning Telluride, Colorado.
Between the Covers Bookstore and Bruno Cafe
11.0 km
Discover a literary paradise at Between the Covers Bookstore and Bruno Cafe in Telluride—where books meet brews in a cozy atmosphere.
Patagonia
11.0 km
Explore high-quality, sustainable outdoor clothing at Patagonia in Telluride, where adventure meets style in the heart of the Rockies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cornerhouse Grille
10.9 km
Experience a unique blend of New American cuisine in a cozy setting at Cornerhouse Grille, the heart of Telluride's culinary scene.
there Telluride
10.9 km
Experience a culinary fusion at There Telluride, where Japanese izakaya meets New American cuisine in a cozy, eclectic atmosphere.
New Sheridan Hotel
10.9 km
Discover the historic elegance and vibrant atmosphere of New Sheridan Hotel, a perfect blend of luxury and adventure in Telluride, Colorado.
Chop House Restaurant at New Sheridan
10.9 km
Experience fine dining at the Chop House Restaurant in Telluride, where exquisite steak and brunch options await in a historic setting.
New Sheridan Historic Bar
10.9 km
Discover the New Sheridan Historic Bar in Telluride, where rich history meets contemporary charm in a vibrant atmosphere.
Steamies Burger Bar
10.9 km
Discover the best burgers in Telluride at Steamies Burger Bar, where unique flavors and a cozy diner atmosphere await every guest.
Floradora Saloon
10.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful cuisine at Floradora Saloon, a must-visit bar and restaurant in picturesque Telluride, Colorado.
ESPERANZA'S Tequila Restaurant
10.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Esperanza's Tequila Restaurant in Telluride, Colorado.
Alpinist & the Goat
11.0 km
Experience the warmth of fondue dining at Alpinist & the Goat, where alpine flavors meet cozy mountain charm in the heart of Telluride.
Uno Dos Tres Tacos & Tequila
11.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico in the heart of Telluride at Uno Dos Tres Tacos & Tequila, where every taco tells a story.
Wood Ear
11.0 km
Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine and crafted cocktails at Wood Ear, a must-visit restaurant in Telluride, Colorado.
The Alibi
11.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Telluride at The Alibi, a cozy bar offering craft cocktails, local brews, and a friendly atmosphere for all.
Tellurado Studio & Bistro
11.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of art and cuisine at Tellurado Studio & Bistro, a must-visit destination in the heart of Telluride, Colorado.
Fly Me To The Moon Saloon
11.0 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Fly Me To The Moon Saloon in Telluride, a perfect spot for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Obannon's Irish Pub
11.0 km
Experience the warmth of Ireland at Obannon's Irish Pub in Telluride, where great food, drinks, and live music await.
