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Hikes/United States/Colorado/Aspen
Panorama from the Cathedral Lake hike in Aspen, Colorado

Cathedral Lake Route Guide

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
637 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.5 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
9.9 (12 reviews)
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead
Google Maps
Apple Maps
See Map
Measurement:

Table of contents

Although it is a steep hike, the alpine atmosphere obtained by reaching this stunning basin is easily worth the strain on your lungs. Sitting at the base of the imposing and aptly named Cathedral Mountain, the clear blue Cathedral Lake takes on an almost spiritual essence.

Route Description for Cathedral Lake

Beginning along the Cathedral Lake Trail, you will initially head southwest and immediately start gaining elevation. Soon you will find yourself above the roaring Pine Creek as you veer to the west and continue climbing.

You will soon be out of the foliage. As the trees clear, incredible views will appear across the valley and of the flank of Malemute Peak. Looking up the valley you will also be able to see the edge of Cathedral Lake. The views will get even better as you ascend.

Veering right (more to the north) you will soon reach a junction where you will go left towards Cathedral Lake. You will complete another short climb before cresting a bushy ridge. From here you will descend a short ways to the north side of Cathedral Lake. There are plenty of places to take a break beside the lake, so explore a little bit and find a secluded area all to yourself.

The most impressive view is the one looking across the lake with Cathedral Peak in the background. We love this Rocky Mountain vista of Cathedral Peak and its impressive, fortress like south ridge. Malemute Peak sits to the south (left). From the ridge just before the lake, looking back, you will be able to see the grassy and slopping Leahy Peak.

After enjoying the stunning waters and views of Cathedral Lake return the way you came.

Chasing alpine lakes? See more hiking routes near Aspen.

Insider Hints for Cathedral Lake

  • Cathedral Lake is a superb easy one night backpacking destination or a great - although a little far - picnic spot.

Getting to the Cathedral Lake Trailhead

Head west from Aspen along Colorado 82 for 0.8 km to get to the traffic circle. Take the 3rd exit onto Castle Creek Rd. Follow this for 19.3 km, until you see signs for the Cathedral Lake Trail. Turn right and follow the road up to the parking area.

Route Information for Cathedral Lake

  • When to do:

    Late June through September

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Yes, at Cathedral Lake

  • Toilets:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Cathedral Lake Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews for Cathedral Lake

9.9
12 reviews
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Lola M.July 2020

Awe-inspiring scenery! The atmosphere was great upon reaching the basin! The mountain and lake make a great composition.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Tiffany SwiftJune 2020

Steep hike with impressive views. Worth it.

Overall Rating
9
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Banter F.September 2019

Be careful because it's a steep hike. Great view of the lake.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Ashton L.August 2019

A good place to explore. Hike is not easy but it's rewarding. Marvelous scenery.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
merry g.July 2019

It was a nice and fun moderate hike. The views across the valley were jaw-dropping. Love this hike so much.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Jordan A.July 2019

Beautiful hike with lots of good spots to rest. It was worth every stop.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Michael L.July 2019

Amazing views! It was mildly challenging but amazing. Overall, it was fantastic!

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Susanne P.July 2019

Views keep on getting better as you go. My tip: Just do it!

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Josephine B.July 2019

A steep hike with breathtaking views. The picnic spot is kinda far.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Siobhan RingstonMay 2019

A beautiful place for exploration. It's a wonderful area to unravel.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.

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Last Updated: July 6, 2026

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