Chicago Lakes Trail

Join me on one of my favorite lake hikes near the front range.

Chicago Lakes Trail is one of the rare CO hikes that begins with a descent but offers spectacular views down the NE valley of Mount Bierstadt and Blue Sky. Once at the bottom, the trail remains relative flat for about 1 mile and then gradually ascends up to the lower Chicago Lake. At the lower lake, we’ll take a steep (but short) incline up to the upper Chicago Lake where we’ll be treated to incredible views up the valley as well as the surrounding peaks.

As usual, please be sure to have all the necessary gear and supplies to safely hike 10 miles at high elevations. Weather can be unpredictable at this time of year so come prepared for wind and potential rain/hail. Be sure to carry sunscreen and/or sun protection as we will be exposed to the sun for large sections of the hike.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/chicago-lakes-trail-2

Distance: 9.5-10 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2200’

Trailhead: 39.659846, -105.604433
(Right off Hwy 103 north of Echo Lake (Google: Echo Lake Trailhead Parking))

Main street parking is off Hwy 103 next to Echo Lake and there is also a small parking lot to the west of the lake at Echo Lake Trailhead Parking.

For those of you wanting to carpool, meet at Wooly Mammoth Parking Lot, near Section JJ in Golden by 6:00AM. I drive a dark gray Toyota Tundra with a topper.