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This is a great place to camp on a hot summer day. Come for the views, but stay for the cool water and the upper lake.


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Map Key

1.1

Miles

1.7

KM

68%

Runnable

10,663' 3,250 m

High

9,976' 3,041 m

Low

700' 213 m

Up

13' 4 m

Down

13%

Avg Grade (7°)

34%

Max Grade (19°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views

CAMPFIRES ARE NOT ALLOWED. Permits are not required for overnight stays inside the
James Peak Wilderness. However, other wilderness regulations apply.

Description

Not to be confused with Crater Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Crater Lakes Trail is in the James Peak Wilderness.

The Crater Lakes Trail turns right (north) off the South Boulder Creek Trail at the junction sign. It climbs for a mile into a wide valley before crossing the narrow spit of land between the two main lakes. To reach the fantastic upper lake, follow the steep fisherman's trail up the headwall and down a talus field to the lakeshore.

In June and early July, this valley can be full of deep snow and the trail may not be visible.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 29 votes

#195

Overall
  4.3 from 29 votes
5 Star
41%
4 Star
52%
3 Star
7%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#45

in Colorado

#195

Overall
11 Views Last Month
5,347 Since May 4, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
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61%
21%
18%
0%

Photos

Crater Lake
Jan 21, 2020 near Winter…, CO
Crater Lakes Trail
Aug 13, 2019 near Winter…, CO
Crater Lake.
Jan 20, 2018 near Winter…, CO
FInal crest approaching the Crater Lakes
Apr 1, 2018 near Winter…, CO
Crater Lake approach June 2019.
Jun 16, 2019 near Winter…, CO
Crater Lake Trail
Jan 21, 2020 near Winter…, CO

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