Navajo Lake Trail

Route Description for Navajo Lake Trail

If you enjoy putting in a hard day’s work of uphill hiking in order to enjoy breathtaking views of alpine scenery, then the Navajo Lake Trail will be the perfect route for you. The 637 m of elevation gain along this route will certainly provide a good leg burn, but if you take your time and pace yourself, you will be rewarded with gorgeous alpine views of the Lizard Head Wilderness Area.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the northeast and almost immediately enter into the dense cover of the forest. Here, you will pass through peaceful meadows and the tranquil atmosphere of the woodland terrain, as you make your way uphill alongside the winding banks of the West Dolores River.

Eventually, you will break free of the forest and arrive at the edge of a stunning alpine basin within the Lizard Head Wilderness Area. Following along the river as it heads east, you will quickly come to the serene shores of Navajo Lake and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. After spending some time by the lake, make your way back downhill through the forests and meadows to return to the trailhead.