Arapaho Glacier Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
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.
6-8.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
20.9 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.
851 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.
10.0
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.
Advanced (Diamond)
Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid 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.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Panorama from the Arapaho Glacier Trail hike in Indian Peaks, Colorado

The hike on this high alpine trail leads you to an overlook of Arapaho Glacier and one of the best views of the Continental Divide and Indian Peaks. Trail ends at the saddle of South Arapaho Peak. It’s a tough hike though; you'll want to bring hiking poles for this one.

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Route Description for Arapaho Glacier Trail

From the parking lot, the trail ascends through the dense pine trees that make up Roosevelt National Forest. You’ll be on this forest trail for a couple of miles. You’ll skirt along the south boundary of the Boulder Watershed.

The trees will begin to thin. Suddenly, you’ll be hiking above the tree line. From this vantage, you’ll obtain panoramic views of the Indian Peaks Region including North Arapaho Peak, and the Continental Divide.

The trail gains elevation traversing along the North side of two unnamed alpine mountains. Above the tree line, you will enjoy views of Silver Lake (below) and North Arapaho Peak Cirque (above); as you hike over a saddle, you’ll get views of James Peak in the distance.

Continue along the well-marked trail until you reach the base of South Arapaho Peak and the Arapaho Glacier overlook. Arapaho Glacier used to be the largest glacier in the state of Colorado, and it once was the main source of fresh water for Boulder.

After appreciating the amazing view, return the way you came.

If you want to find other great hikes in Indian Peaks Wilderness, check out the Lone Eagle Peak hike, Lake Isabelle trail or the Rainbow Lakes trail.

Insider Hints for Arapaho Glacier Trail

  • Unimproved camping is available along Co Rd. 116 if Rainbow Lakes Campground is full. (Wildlife Alert: Bears are common in this area, proper storage of food and supplies is required, otherwise expect to have guests!)
  • Altitude sickness is a concern on this trail. Bring plenty of water, stay hydrated and don’t party too hard the night before! Descend if you feel symptoms.
  • The pit toilets on the trail are only open during the peak season (6/1-9/15).
  • Visit the Town of Nederland, and grab a bite at Crosscut Pizzeria & Taphouse or a beer at the Very Nice Brewing Company after your hike.
  • This trail is exposed to the elements. Be prepared for high winds, sun exposure and storms in the afternoon and evenings.
  • If this trail is done early in the season, expect there to be snow present - so bring traction.
  • The trail itself is an unmaintained, single track; expect tree roots, loose rocks and water from spring runoff. Trekking poles and hiking boots with support are ideal for this trail in all seasons.

Getting to the Arapaho Glacier Trail Trailhead

From Nederland, at the traffic circle, take 2nd exit onto W 2nd St. Continue onto CO-72 for 10.9 km. Take a left to Rainbow Lakes on CO-Rd. 116. Take gravel road for ~8.0 km to parking.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Early June to Late September

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Rainbow Lakes or backcountry with permit

  • Toilets

    Yes

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Arapaho Glacier Trail Elevation Graph

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Arapaho Glacier Trail Reviews

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