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    Frying Pan Lakes Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    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.
    3.5-4.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    13.2 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.
    356 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The Frying Pan Lake Trail is just as exciting and interesting as the name sounds. Though there are no frying pans involved, this epic hike travels through some of the most picturesque scenery up to the basin laden with shimmering lakes and encircled by majestic peaks. This trek is a must-add to your Colorado adventure list.

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    Route Description for Frying Pan Lakes Trail

    We love the Frying Pan Lakes Trail, and we think you might too. Exhibiting the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna, this trek will guide you through luxuriant meadows dotted with wildflowers, through dense evergreen woodlands, and along rocky ridges. This deep backcountry adventure also presents the ideal opportunity to wander amongst bears, moose, deer and marmots. If you are nervous about an unwelcomed encounter with wildlife, consider wearing a bear bell! Note this path is subject to blowdowns, so you may have to navigate sections of treefall.

    Lace-up your hiking boots and head out on the Frying Pan Lakes Trail from the trailhead at the end of Nast Tunnel Diversion Road. From here, track southeast along the Frying Pan Lakes Trail. The craggy walls will hug you as you travel through the river valley. Enjoy the ambient sounds of the running waters and keep an eye out for wildlife. As you climb, the trail will become increasingly exposed as you near the mountain cirque. Revel in the grandeur of the looming peaks and when you get to the lakes, rejuvenate your feet in the frigid waters.

    Notice Mount Massive in the southeast and Deer Mountain and Mount Oklahoma in the south. Appreciate the grandeur of the wilderness, and when you are done reveling in the scenery of the shimmering lakes, backtrack along the path to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Frying Pan Lakes Trail Trailhead

    The Frying Pan Lake Trail departs from the Frying Pan Lakes Trailhead off the Nast Tunnel Diversion Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Dispersed Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      June-September

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Frying Pan Lakes Trail Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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    Frying Pan Lakes Trail Reviews

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