
This Colorado lake is so crystal clear and blue!
Coloradans can visit this stunning blue oasis by hiking up the Blue Lakes trail in The Mt. Sneffels wilderness, a highly trafficked 20.9 mile moderately strenuous hike. The alpine trail is surrounded by wildflower meadows and stunning panoramic views of Mt. Sneffels’ surrounding mountains and the Dallas Creek Drainage Area, which is prettier than it sounds. Don’t forget to check it out in the fall time when the foliage is shifting into browns and golds.
This 16,566 wilderness is nestled in Uncompahre National Forest, with a stunning drive to go alongside the trail. The Lower Lakes takes a little more than 3.5 miles to reach from the start of the trail head with uphill ascents. For even better panoramic views, hikers can continue towards the Upper Lakes, which ascends at an elevation of 11,500 feet. 500 of those feet you’re ascending in little over half a mile. Climbing even further into Blue Lakes Pass at 13,000 feet before descending into Yankee Boy Basin.
The blue lake oasis has been a popular spot for trail hikers for years, and it’s easy to see why. The Blue Lake is a perfectly serene and perfect for photo opportunities. Although its a 7 hour drive from Denver, we think its well-worth the effort. Just check out some of these photos.
The trail is known to be snowy in the winter, and as Colorado has just received a flurry of snow, it’s best to check ahead of time that the pass is open. Happy trails!
[featured image by Brian Erickson via Unsplash]