Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Gibraltar Lakes Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    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.
    7-9.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    26.6 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.
    772 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 Gibraltar Lakes Hike is a hidden gem among the hundreds of trails in the Indian Peaks. Hike along the border of the Rocky Mountain National Park, near Saint Vrain Mountain. Conquer this primitive trail in a day or take you time and camp at the lakes overnight, if you have a permit. This hike is a great adventure for experienced hikers looking to explore a more isolated section of the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Gibraltar Lakes Hike on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Gibraltar Lakes Hike

    If you are looking to avoid the crowds, then the Gibraltar Lakes Hike is the right place to be. The initial segment of this hike is well maintained as it branches off to multiple other trails in the area. Once the route diverges off the main channel, then the trail becomes more primitive and overgrown. Make sure you have a trail GPS and a keen sense of adventure for this one! Be wary of bears and moose as you progress along this woodland trail.

    The Gibraltar Lakes Hike departs from the Camp Dick Parking Lot, from there get onto Country Road 92J. You will quickly meet an intersection, veer right onto Buchanan Pass Trail. Maintain along this trail as it follows along the curves of the Middle St. Vrain Creek and past cascading waterfalls. Avoid diverting off this trail until you encounter the Saint Vrain Glaciers Trail. Turn right, diverting you onto the Saint Vrain Glaciers Trail. This section of the hike is less maintained and trickier to navigate. Follow this route up the glacial valley as you ascend the timberline. This trial will guide you west before curving south down to the Gibraltar Lakes. Nestled amongst craggy peaks, these little lakes are the perfect spot to stop for a rest or set up shop for the night.

    Whether you make this hike a backpacking excursion or finish it in a day, return the way you came. Retrace your footsteps all the way back to the parking lot.

    Getting to the Gibraltar Lakes Hike Trailhead

    The Gibraltar Lakes Hike begins from the Camp Dick Campground off Country Road 92.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Yes, permits required.

    • When to do

      June-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Gibraltar Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Gibraltar Lakes Hike Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter