Interlaken Trail

Route Description for Interlaken Trail

The Interlaken Trail is a wonderful adventure through enchanting forests that reveals stunning vistas of the Twin Lakes. This amazing excursion is family-friendly, providing the perfect excuse to get the family away from screens and into the fresh air. Great for those seeking to attempt a Colorado 14er, this route is an awesome way to acclimate to the area's elevation. Impressively beautiful, you will undoubtedly be sharing the trail with fellow adventurers, so if you are seeking a more secluded experience, consider a weekday trek or early morning excursion. Additionally, the road to the trailhead is rugged, so we suggest a vehicle with high ground clearance and a 4-wheel drive.

The Interlaken Trail presents countless outdoor activity possibilities as it's open year-round! In the summer, you can hike or bike, and in the winter months, trade your shoes for cross country skis or snowshoes! With limited elevation gain, manageable terrain, and lower altitude, this is a great choice for families with children and novice hikers. Travel through towering pines and vibrant aspen groves as you trek along the shoreline to the historic resort. We recommended packing a lunch and having a picnic on the resort's lawn, overlooking the blue-hued waters encircled by lush forestlands and bounded by looming snow-dusted peaks.

Embark on your adventure along the Interlaken Trail from the Continental Divide Trail/ Colorado Trailhead off County Road 25. From here, hikers will be guided west along the Colorado Spur Trail. Shortly after your departure from the trailhead, you will encounter an intersection. Here, keep right, and you will be diverted onto the Colorado Trail Segment 11. This path nears the shore of the Twin Lakes as it passes through aspen groves interspersed with towering pines and spruce trees.

Enjoy the sights of adventurers enjoying the glittering waters below as you continue to trek west. Sharing the trail with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, keep an ear out for bikers passing by. If you are hiking in the early morning or on a calm day, you will be rewarded with the sight of the lake mirroring the Sawatch Mountain Range peaks looming above. Soon you will encounter the Interlaken Resort and Dexter's cabin. Explore the grounds of the historic buildings and learn more from the interpretive signs. You will be granted a wonderful panorama of the lakes flanked by the vaulted mountains in the background from the lawn. Revel in the wonderful views, and when you are ready to return, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Interlaken Historic Resort

Built in the 1870s by John A. Stanley, the Lakeside Resort was a popular weekend escape. The Interlaken Resort was a bustling destination that overlooked the shimmering waters of the Twin Lakes. Attracting tourists from all over the country, a millionaire, James V. Dexter, bought the resort and expanded and transformed the resort into a luxury destination. Closing in the early 20th century, Dexter’s cabin and the resort remain on the grounds. Accessed by the Colorado Trail Segment 11, the charming buildings are an awesome place to have a picnic overlooking the glittering lakes halfway through your hike along the Interlaken Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Interlaken Trail?

The Interlaken Trail located near the Twin Lakes in Colorado

Are dog permitted on the Interlaken Trail?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Interlaken Trail as long as they remain on-leash.

Insider Hints for Interlaken Trail

• The road to the trailhead is rugged, so make sure your vehicle has high ground clearance.
• In the winter months, this route is a great cross country skiing trail!
• Pack provisions and have a picnic along the shore overlooking the shimmering lake.
• Hike in the fall to enjoy the aspens at their peak vibrance.