Azure Lake Trail

Route Description for Azure Lake Trail

The Azure Lake Trail is a stunning alpine adventure in the Rocky Mountain National Park. You will feel as though you are on top of the world as you hike amongst the clouds and marmots. This adventure travels exposed terrain at high altitudes, so make sure to check the forecast prior to your adventure to avoid getting caught in an afternoon thunderstorm. We would also recommend wearing layers as the weather conditions can change on a dime! Note that park passes are required to access the trails within the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Embark on your adventure from the Milner Pass Trailhead. From here, track the Ute Trail along the shore of the Poudre Lake. Keep along this trail until you encounter the Mount Ida intersection, turn right here. Hike this path and it will quickly graduate the timberline. Track along the exposed path, revelling in the stunning alpine wilderness that surrounds you. Notice marmots as you trek along the Continental Divide and pass Peak 12150. Follow the path and merge onto the Mount Ida summit route before diverging east and descending the technical ridge to Azure Lake.

Explore the shores of the blue-hued lake and over to Inkwell Lake. Rest and enjoy the sights of the crystalline lakes before ascending the rocky mountain cirque. Hike up the ridge and reconnect with the Mount Ida Summit Trail. From here, retrace your footing back along the path back to the trailhead.