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    Hikes/United States/Colorado/Aspen

    Cathedral Lake

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    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
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    9.5 km
    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
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Overall Rating
    This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
    9.9
    Physical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Intermediate (Square)
    Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
    Technical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
    Read Reviews
    Directions to Trailhead
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    Panorama from the Cathedral Lake hike in Aspen, Colorado

    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.

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    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.

    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

    • 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

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    Cathedral Lake Reviews

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