Crystal Lake Trail
Table of contents
The Crystal Lake Trail is a beautifully scenic, albeit very challenging, hiking route in Lake City, Colorado that will take you uphill for gorgeous views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. While out on the trail, you will work your way uphill through meadows and sparse aspen groves along a steep trail that offers little in the way of a reprieve from the elevation gain, before arriving at the shores of Crystal Lake. Bring plenty of water for this hike, as the route is almost entirely exposed to the sun and is unrelenting in its steepness.
Route Description for Crystal Lake Trail
Whether you are physically fit enough to easily handle the rigors of this trail or are a glutton for punishment, the Crystal Lake Trail is a relentlessly steep hiking route that will allow you to fully experience the natural beauty and rugged nature of the San Juan Mountains.
Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the west and immediately begin climbing up the steep mountainside. Here, you will largely traverse the open hillside that is exposed to the sun, although there will be a few aspen groves along the route that will provide a bit of shade.
After slogging your way uphill through the nearly relentless slope of the mountainside, you will arrive at the scenic shores of Crystal Lake situated below Crystal Peak. Take some time here for some much deserved rest and to experience the amazing scenery, before heading back down along the same trail to return to your starting point.
Getting to the Crystal Lake Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Crystal Lake Trail can be found along Rocky Springs Drive in Lake City, right next to the New Cemetery.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
March-October
Pets allowed:
Yes
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Crystal Lake Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!
Nearby Trails
Waterman Mountain Loop Trail
Angeles National Forest
Lewis Falls Trail
San Francisco
Throop Peak via Dawson Gap Hike
Angeles National Forest
Crystal Lake to Throop Peak Hike
Angeles National Forest
Crystal Lake to South Mount Hawkins Trail
Angeles National Forest
Little Jimmy Springs Hike
Angeles National Forest
Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail
Angeles National Forest
Crystal Lake, Mount Islip, and Windy Gap Loop Hike
Angeles National Forest
Crystal Lake Trail
Angeles National Forest
Little Jimmy Campground Hike
Angeles National Forest
Mount Islip via Little Jimmy Campground Hike
Angeles National Forest
Crystal Lake Trail
Inyo National Forest