Mount Toll 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.
4.5-6h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.4 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.
770 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 Mount Toll Hike is a popular adventure in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, and rightfully so. This hike has the perfect balance of demanding and enjoyable terrain. Begin this trek in the alpine woods, passing shimmering blue lakes before veering off the beaten path and exploring the ridge to the summit! This Mount Toll Hike is a must-add to your Colorado hiking itinerary.

Download the 10Adventures App

View Mount Toll Hike on Map

View Map

Join our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Mount Toll Hike

Summiting Mount Toll is an impressive feat. Meander through the woodland trails before an exhilarating scramble up the side of a craggy Indian Peak! What could be better?

The trailhead for the Mount Toll Hike is located in the Brainard Lake Recreational Area—day passes are required. You can purchase a pass online or in person. Note that the Recreational Area also closes seasonally from mid-October to late-June. This trail is popular, and parking is limited, so we recommend arriving early to secure a spot! Plus, you’ll beat the crowd! This trail passes not one, but three lakes on your way to the summit. Make sure to have your camera out! In the foreground of the craggy Indian Peaks, these lakes present the perfect photo-op. Once you pass the lakes and begin your ascent to the ridgeline the trail is unmarked and steep as you scramble a boulder and talus field. Proper footwear and a trail GPS are essential when summiting the peak.

Begin your hike at the Mitchell Lake Trailhead. Head northwest on the Mitchell Lake Trail, crossing a log bridge before arriving at Mitchell Lake. Continue through the aspen woods before ascending the timberline. Follow the Mitchell Lake Trail as you gradually climb towards Blue Lake. Enjoy the marvelous blue alpine lake before continuing your trek. Curve along the North side of the Lake, passing Little Blue Lake before veering south off the trail. At this point, there are no signposts, only rock cairns as you scramble northwest up the talus field up to the ridgeline. Be careful as you navigate loose boulders to the summit of Mount Toll. After you conquer the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of surrounding snow-dusted craggy peaks and views of the alpine landscape below.

Enjoy the sights before retracing your steps down the mountain. Once you return to Little Blue Lake and Blue Lake, follow the Mitchell Lake Trail back to the parking lot.

Getting to the Mount Toll Hike Trailhead

The Mount Toll Hike Trailhead is located in the Brainard Lake Recreational Area. Begin your hike from the Mitchell Lake Trailhead and Parking Lot.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Yes, permits required.

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Mount Toll Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Mount Toll 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