Green Lake via Carbon Trail

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.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.9 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.
437 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

The Green Lake via Carbon Trail is an amazing experience in Crested Butte, Colorado that will take you to a lovely alpine lake with mountain views. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse a steep switchback trail that will lead you uphill through the forest to reach the shores of Green Lake, situated below the looking rock formation of Mount Axtell. This route isn’t overly difficult, but the steep climb through the forest will be sure to provide a bit of a leg burn!

Guide-book quality info for over 8,000 trails

View Green Lake via Carbon Trail on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Green Lake via Carbon Trail

For those hikers based out of Crested Butte that are after a fun, intermediate-length route with beautifully scenic views of an alpine lake and nearby mountains, the Green Lake via Carbon Trail is a fantastic option to take in the beauty of the Elk Mountains.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way south across Coal Creek to enter into the dense cover of the forest. Here, you will begin the steep ascent of the mountainside along a switchbacking trail that will primarily pass through woodland terrain, although there will be a few small meadows dispersed along the trail.

After slogging your way uphill through the forest, you will arrive at the beautifully scenic shores of Green Lake and the imposing Mount Axtell situated just behind it. After spending some time in this picturesque setting, you will simply make your way back down the hillside along the same trail in order to return to the trailhead.

Getting to the Green Lake via Carbon Trail Trailhead

The starting point for the Green Lake via Carbon Trail can be found along Kebler Pass Road, just 4.5 km west of the Crested Butte Nordic Center.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    June-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Green Lake via Carbon Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Green Lake via Carbon Trail Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs