FOREST LAKES TRAIL: JAMES PEAK WILDERNESS AREA
Details
6.4 mi Length
Moderate level of difficulty
1,532 ft Elevation gain
3h 26m Estimated time
Out & back trail
FYI: ***THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF HIKERS ALLOWED IN A GROUP AT THIS LOCATION IS 12. I'VE SET THE MAX FOR THIS HIKE AT 24, DUE TO SO MANY ON THE WAITLIST, SO WE'LL BREAK INTO 2 GROUPS OF 12 EACH BEFORE STARTING OUT. ***
***ALSO: PLEASE ONLY SIGN UP IF YOU ARE DEFINITELY PLANNING TO ATTEND. THERE HAVE BEEN TOO MANY LATE CANCELS OR NO-SHOWS ON RECENT HIKES.***
Highlights include stunning scenery, magnificent mountain views, abundant wildflowers, and beautiful lakes.
This mostly shady, forested trail winds past a creek through the James Peak Wilderness to Forest Lakes. You'll pass through aspen groves that are beautiful during the autumn.
Dogs are allowed on hiking trails within the James Peak Wilderness Area, but they must be on a leash at all times. The leash should be hand-held and no longer than 6 feet, according to the Indian Peaks Wilderness Alliance. This rule is in place to protect both the dog and other visitors, as well as wildlife.
LOCATION/DIRECTIONS:
The Forest Lakes trailhead in the James Peak Wilderness, Colorado, is located at the end of Gilpin County Road 16, near the Moffat Tunnel. Specifically, it's at the East Portal Trailhead, right next to the Moffat Tunnel's eastern entrance according to the US Forest Service. The address can be listed as East Portal Moffat Tunnel, Rollinsville, CO 80474, according to TripAdvisor.
Restrooms are available at the trailhead.
FOREST LAKES TRAIL: JAMES PEAK WILDERNESS AREA