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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
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.
362 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.6 km
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.
2.5-3.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Trail is a unique adventure into the Mount of the Holy Cross Wilderness. Though not a quintessential summit hike in the Sawatch Mountain Range, this stunning trail is a welcomed change as it exhibits sights of the lush woodlands, wildflower fields, looming peaks, and the Beaver Creek Ski Resort all before arriving at the charming lake.

Route Description for Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Hike

Immerse yourself in the wilderness and get your steps in along the Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Trail. Though your feet may grow weary, the postcard-worthy scenery creates the perfect distraction. Enjoy sights of the looming snow-capped peaks like Mount of the Holy Cross and revel in the beauty of the high country’s landscape. Though technically accessible via the Cinch-Upper Road, many prefer to take the Centennial chairlift up to the trailhead—it is more fun anyway!

Departing from the Royal Elk Trailhead, the Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Hike tracks southwestward. Immediately the path will begin to gradually descend, guiding you beneath the shade of towering pine and spruce trees. Follow the route, intersecting with several snowmelt streams and crossing under chairlifts. Interspersed with meadowlands, you will be granted wonderful views of Colorado’s mountainous wilderness before arriving at a junction. Here, keep left, and you will be diverted onto the Turquoise Lakes Trail.

This path will quickly deliver you to Beaver Lake, a quaint lake nestled beneath the timberline that reveals sights of the snow-capped summits peaking over the trees. Enjoy the scenery, and when you are ready to return, simply retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Hike Trailhead

Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Hike is accessed via the trailhead off Cinch-Upper Road. Consider taking the Centennial Ski lift for easier access.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Royal Elk to Beaver Lake Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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