Gore Range to Wheeler Lakes

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Geological Significance · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Though marred by an initial run near the highway, this turns into an excellent outing of only moderate difficulty.

This is an excellent option for the area - a relatively smooth service and moderate hills (by local standards). You're still at 10-11,000' though!

From the trailhead (or the parking lot at Copper Mountain, which is slight closer to the nice start of the trail), follow the path along the highway until you head up the pleasantly forested hill.

You quickly enter a slight canyon and the highway noises disappear, and you pass the official wilderness boundary. Continue past small meadows and forest on the Gore Range Trail #60 for 3 miles. Be sure to admire the bountiful lupine and other wilderflowers.

Take a right at the Wheeler Lakes Trail #60.1A junction and enjoy expansive meadows just filled with flowers in late July through early August. The section is mostly flat and very pleasant. Enjoy visiting both lakes and peek views of the Gore Range.

Some of the better wilderflowers in the area - particularly if you like lupine.