Lost Lake Hike
Table of contents
This is a popular, family-friendly hike, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth checking out. Lost Lake is a moderately easy hike that begins at the historic Hessie Townsite (an old mining town, high in the Rocky Mountains). This hike offers a lot of bang for your buck: not a lot work for a lot of great sights.
Route Description for Lost Lake Hike
Begin the Lost Lake Trail at the Hessie Trailhead where there is a map of the surrounding area. Follow the signs for Lost Lake, crossing over a bridge and onto a pretty trail through pine forests and aspen groves.
After a couple of switchbacks past an old log cabin, you will gain elevation alongside an impressive waterfall. A short side trail spurs off from the main trail to a waterfall overlook point that we think is worth the view!
Continuing on to Lost Lake, you will descend down into a small valley before crossing over a bridge to the base of a second, smaller waterfall. From this point, the trail climbs to the other side of the valley andall the way up to Lost Lake.
From the lake, you will enjoy views of Mt. Neva and Mt. Jasper off in the distance. Once you’ve had your fill of views, you can hike back the way you came.
Frequently asked questions about Lost Lake, Colorado
Can you swim in Lost Lake?
Yes, you can swim in the Lost Lake and this lake will have the warmest water then surrounding lakes.
Can you fish at Lost Lake?
Yes, you are able to fish in the Lost Lake, however, make sure you have the permit to do so.
How long is the Lost Lake Trail?
The Lost Lake Trail is a 4.5 km trek that loops around the lake.
If you want to find other great hikes in Indian Peaks Wilderness, check out the Lone Eagle Peak hike, Lake Isabelle trail, Rainbow Lakes trail or the Arapaho Glacier Trail.
Insider Hints for Lost Lake Hike
- Unimproved camping is available at 4th of July Campground, you might be able to guess how this area came to be named 4th of July, here is a guess; it has to do with snow!
- To limit traffic to the trailhead, the Town of Nederland and the RTD bus system offers a free shuttle to the trailhead. The shuttle leaves from the Nederland Park and Ride Bus Station.
- 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.
Getting to the Lost Lake Hike Trailhead
To get to the Lost Lake Trailhead, from Nederland, at the traffic circle, take 2nd exit onto West 2nd Street and continue onto CO-72 for 10.9 km. Continue onto Hessie Road where the street turns to gravel. Parking is available along the side of the road, at the Hessie Trailhead.
Route Information
When to do:
Early June to Late September
Backcountry Campsites:
In the Lost Lake Area. Permits are required from the National Forest Ranger Station
Toilets:
Yes
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Lost Lake Hike Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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