Idaho Springs Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
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.
1-1.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.4 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.
23 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

If you still want mountain views but do not necessarily want to hike up a peak, consider the Idaho Springs Hike. Walk through the forested terrain up to Idaho Springs. At the lake you will be rewarded with incredible vistas of the Front Range. Flanked by an alpine forest and set in the foreground of the snow-capped peaks, the Idaho Springs hike is one for the books.

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Route Description for Idaho Springs Hike

The Idaho Springs Hike is a wonderful woodland hike up to an idyllic alpine lake. This trail is no walk in the park, though it is short, it packs in some serious elevation. Hike up the steep path as it surrounds you with lush aspen trees. This trail is a great option for those who seek a longer excursion than the Echo Lake Park Trail. Ensure you have appropriate footwear as you will be navigating some rocky terrain.

Begin your journey up the Idaho Springs Trail from the Echo Lake Park Parking Lot. From the parking lot, track southwest on the Chicago Lakes Trail. Briefly hike along the shores of Echo Lake before the trail diverts you into the forest. Travel the route through the dense woodlands as it guides you down into a forested valley. Hike through the gulch and the path will eventually ascend up a rocky path. At this point, the path will become exposed. Trek south and you will eventually encounter a set of switchbacks. Climb up the steep winding trail to the lake where the path plateaus.

Enjoy the quintessential alpine scenery from the shimmering lake. Flanked by forested cliffs, Idaho Springs Lake is located in the foreground of the rocky, snow-dusted peaks. See Goliath Peak in the East and several Front Range peaks in the south, including Mount Evans. When you are ready to return, simply retrace your steps all the way back to the carpark.

Getting to the Idaho Springs Hike Trailhead

The Idaho Springs Hike is off of CO-103. Park in the Echo Lake parking lot.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Idaho Springs Hike Elevation Graph

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