Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585
Table of contents
The Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 is a fun, albeit steep, hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will see you climb sharply uphill to reach the serene shores of a small lake. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse the forests and meadows alongside Elk Creek, climbing uphill until you arrive at the picturesque subalpine destination of Copley Lake. If you don’t mind a bit of leg burn, this is an exceptional hiking route with spectacular views.
Route Description for Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585
Whether you are a casual hiker or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, the Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 is a solid half-day hiking route that will provide you with a good amount of exercise and wonderfully scenic views of the surrounding woodlands and mountain peaks.
Setting out from the parking area, you will cross over Kebler Pass Road and pick up the footpath as it leads to the northwest, following along the banks of Elk Creek as you begin working your way uphill. Here, you will make your way through a lovely stretch of woodland terrain that is broken up by small meadows that will be filled with wildflowers in the summer.
After working your way through the most dense portion of forest along the route, you will arrive at the shores of Copley Lake and be inundated with beautiful views across the water that include the surrounding forests and mountains. After spending some time by the lake, you will make your way back down the same trail omn the return to your vehicle below.
Getting to the Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 Trailhead
The trailhead for the Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 can be found 6.9 km southwest of Crested Butte at a roadside parking area on Kebler Pass Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
April-November
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!
Nearby Trails
Lily Lake Trail #639
Elk Mountains
Green Lake via Carbon Trail
Elk Mountains
Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail
Elk Mountains
Woods Walk
Elk Mountains
Scarp Ridge to Mt Emmons Hike
Elk Mountains
Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop
Elk Mountains
Beaver Ponds 516 Trail
Elk Mountains
Peanut Lake Lower Loop
Elk Mountains
Green Lake Trail
Elk Mountains
Kebler Pass and Lake Irwin Hike
Elk Mountains
Oh Be Joyful Trail
Elk Mountains
Green Lake Trail
Mount Rainier National Park