chicago lake trail idaho springs

chicago lake trail idaho springs2020/09/28

Please arrive a few minutes early to arrange rides. Evans or down to the Chicago Lakes basin. Nice, pretty wooded hike that, until the half mile or so before the reservoir, is very rocky. Easily one of my favorite hikes in Colorado since you get to explore three separate lakes and decently varied terrain This one is no cakewalk though, its got some steep sections and is consistently uphill. Go south for approx. Idaho Springs, Colorado Mount Evans West Ridge via Chicago Creek 15.87 mi / 4859 ft gain Mount Evans West Ridge via Chicago Creek is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Idaho Springs, Colorado. The trail will turn into Idaho Springs Reservoir Road, then will return to a normal trail. It is located near Idaho Springs and features three lakes. It was a beautiful trail and the inclines made it difficult for me! This was a stunning hike! Its one of my new favorites for sure. Overall the hike was peaceful, quiet, great views, and the lake and reservoir looks amazing iced over! From I-70, exit #240 and head south on HWY 103 (toward Mt Evans) for 13 miles to Echo Lake. Thanks for the recommendations! Go south for approx. Current conditions, fishing reports, maps, water levels, boating, camping, articles, blogs, and photos. Both lakes offer excellent views of surrounding peaks. Designated in 1965, this 207 acre natural landmark is located on city-owned land. Definitely a moderate hike - wouldnt take your 2 year old or young kids in vans??? The climb to Summit Lake was mostly clear of snow. We saw a moose! No motorized equipmentor mechanized transportation. Great trail! Definitely micro-spikes needed and snowshoes towards the top. Both lakes can be fished, as well as the lower Idaho Springs Reservoir that you pass on your way. Group size limited to 15 people and/or 10 pack/stock animals per party. The trail then climbs upward and passes through an old burn area from the Reservoir Fire of 1978. We took our friend here for their visit and it was perfect. The Mount Goliath Natural Area protects a rare site of Bristlecone Pines that make excellent photographic subjects.Immediately after parking you're surrounded by a miniature forest full of gnarly twisted shapes. Got there at 9 on a Saturday morning and wasnt very crowded with plenty of parking. Overall beautiful hike. Nueva Jersey: 275 Indian Trail . The park serves as a trailhead for hiking or snowshoeing into the Mount Evans Wilderness, offers picnic areas, and includes a nearby campground with 17 sites. Get to know this 6.9-km out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs, Colorado. Some smaller dogs were struggling but seemed manageable with breaks. Nice pass through snow storm made for really great pictures. At a Glance General Information Directions: I-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103. I didnt see any signs for the reservoir, only Chicago lakes, so we didnt fully complete and turned around at the creek passing. Even the dogs had a great time! It provides access to the Chicago Lakes Trail (#52) and the Resthouse Meadows Trail (#57). Camps, campfires and stock, where allowed, at least 100 feet from water and trails. However, most people dont want to stop there, many continue on to the upper lake, which adds and additional .6 mile to the trail. Youll hike Mount Evans is a simple, yet drop dead gorgeous 14er. Tennessee Hikes. From the marked spur, the main trail continues above Chicago Lake up and down a rugged knoll and last thick patch of forest to the lake's far side. Next time, Ill probably try to start earlier than 6:30 AM, or at least not on a weekend. Dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times in the Mt Evans Wilderness. The permit is non-transferable.The permit holder must accompany his or her party. Its a good trip to warm up on before trying longer ascents. Plus there were lots of aspens changing right before you got to the trailhead. Share sensitive information only There are a few boulders to be climbed over, an area or 2 where the trail is skinny and youre close to edge but nothing too intense. It was a beautiful hike though and would definitely do it again. We started late in the day, so we decided not to go far because we didnt want to get stuck, and also it was mainly show covered. Can you kayak at any of the 3 lakes that are on the way up to the Chicago lake trail? To get to the Upper Chicago Lake, head back to the Chicago Lakes Trail and continue another mile. Had the most perfect hike! The upper lake was gorgeous but the wind coming over the mountain ridge made lingering long rough. Details Distance 6.53 miles Elevation Gain 1837 ft Route Type Loop Description This is a new adventure! It is very easy to extend the hike beyond where the All Trails route endswell marked. Hiked 3/11 with microspikes which was plenty. Recommend snow shoes as the trail is narrow and the snow is deep in some areas. But before travelers can savor the cherry on top of this road-trip sundae, they have plenty of sights to see. Perfect trail! After Hours Non Emergencies Phone: 303.679.2393. Map Information Activities Bicycling Camping & Cabins Fishing Hiking Horse Riding & Camping Nature Viewing Spikes needed, snowshoes would make it worse. ", "Hiked Chicago Lakes to Summit Lake and walked down the Mt Evans road. About 3 miles instead of the full 4. From the parking lot, stay to the right of Echo Lake and you will run into the Chicago Lakes Trailhead. The permit must be either displayed on the dash of the vehicle or carried on the users person at all times while inside the gated area. Definitely needed snow shoes for the last part of the trail after the dam. ( The upper lake was beautiful and the perfect spot to take a break and have a snack. I plan to hike it in full when I get a chance to return to Denver, so thanks for all the information everyone. ", "Nice hike to great views of lower lake above falls in the cirque of the upper lake. Thanks. Explore the full trail profile below for the Chicago Lakes which includes driving directions, map, and tips. Despite its skeletal appearance, the forest is in a natural state of recovery. Lots of people stopping in to look at the lake. Length 17.6 miElevation gain 282 ftRoute type Point to point. Added by The Outbound Collective Lakes and streams; treat water for drinking. Hiked 3/11 with microspikes which was plenty. Idaho Springs Reservoir covers 20 square acres with a maximum depth of 30'. Afternoon arrivals - or those who simply don't wish to fight the willows - will find easier access further up the main trail, though a steep knoll must be scaled to reach them (.35 miles ahead). We are not into giving long trail descriptions on Dayhikes Near Denver, but wed suggest you read the basic one below and check out the trail description and pdf Chicago Lakes map link in the trail profile below. These are not easy dayhikes, so be sure you prepare and bring the 10 Essentials (really, we should always pack the 10 essentials) :) Id recommend picking up a Trails Illustrated map or printing off a quad map of this before taking the route. Didnt love the dirt road for 1.5 miles. A $100 cash deposit is required. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Join a supporting community of travelers and adventurers sharing their photos and local insights. LockA locked padlock Chicago Lakes Trail (#52) Length: 6 miles ONE-WAY Elevation: 10,331 feet - 12,868 feet Trail Description: Begin at the Echo Lake Trailhead. Hikes. No fires except in designated fire pits on City property. I was in awe the whole time. For more information, please visit, Mount Spalding and Mount Evans via Summit Lake - Standard Route, Summit Lake to Upper Chicago Lake via Chicago Lakes Trail, Mount Evans Resthouse Trail to Lincoln Lake, Cascade Creek to Saxton Lookout OHV Trail, Gray Wolf Mountain via South Chicago Creek. The trial to Lower and Upper Chicago Lake offers up amazing views of Mount Evans Wilderness. Ignore a social trail leading across the creek to a popular bouldering area on the east side of the valley. Pretty icy but did just fine with our yaktracks. Brutal winds at the reservoir lake, so did not hang out long. We hiked a short section of this trail in May while exploring the area. We were up at Summit Lake and saw that there was a trail that looked like it went down from there to the Chicago Lakes. It is a popular facility for hiking and fishing enthusiasts. Then, some people opt to hike around the lake, which adds to the hike as well. If you go out to Chicago lake just note that you start high and then go down and then back upetc, and it's out and back so the last leg back can be quite a workout after you've done 10+ miles. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Definitely bring Yaktraks or spikes for this one! Dispersed backcountry camping is permitted in the Arapaho National Forest and Mt Evans Wilderness Area. According to a 1945 trail plan, the trail extended to Summit Lake, although the total mileage is given as only 4.6 miles. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests & Pawnee National Grassland, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building E The lakes sit in a classic glacier-carved valley and offer excellent views of surrounding peaks. From here, enjoy the views of the glacier cut valley at the base of Mt Evans (4,348 m). There is a trail that connects with the Chicago Lakes Trail, a trail that will take you up to the summit of Mt. This is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Loved this hike. Photograph Ancient Bristlecone Pines on Mt. It was a great workout. Nothing can be found of the other at the south end of the lake, but a photo from the 1880s by William Henry Jackson shows the cabin next to the lake. Getting there: I-70 exit #240 up Hwy 103 12.5 mi from Idaho Springs, approx. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ", "Intended to hike to the summit of Mt. The Chicago Lakes are accessed from Echo Lake, 13.25 miles south of I-70 (Idaho Springs) in the Mt Evans Wilderness Area. It steepens considerably up the rock face separating the two lakes, a strenuous climb with a commanding view over Chicago Lake #1 and the valley below. Its one of my new favorites for sure. FRIENDS OF MOUNT EVANS & LOST CREEK WILDERNESSESPO BOX 3431EVERGREEN, CO 80437. Lots of snow, we did not have snowshoes, but they would have helped. Experience this 4.3-mile out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs, Colorado. It was beautiful! At the 2-mile mark the road reconnects with the Chicago Lakes Trail. Print Trail The Chicago Lakes hike begins at Echo Lake. Watch for the private property signs once you hit the road to the reservoir. Beautiful hike. Discover this 4.3-mile out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs, Colorado. 25948 Genesee Trail Rd By signing up for this hike you agree to do all the research and preparation needed for this hike and to be totally responsible for your own safety. The park serves as a trailhead for hiking or snowshoeing into the Mount Evans Wilderness, offers picnic areas, and includes a nearby campground with 17 sites. The Chicago Lakes Trail begins at Echo Lake (west side), 13.25 miles south of I-70 on HWY 103. Genesee Pub and BBQ, https://www.geneseepubandbbq.com/ Lots of snow, we did not have snowshoes, but they would have helped. Really fun, great views at the top! The Mt. Only a couple scrambles but it is a slower go than you might think. South Dakota Hikes. Especially with the tree colors changing. After crossing the creek, follow the sign indicating that the trail follows the dirt road and hang a left; from here, you'll reach the Idaho Springs Reservoir is a little over 1.5 miles. United States government. With the current road closure on Mt Evans, the walk down the road was incredibly peaceful and relaxing. The trail has a lot of character: steep areas, massive cliff walls, and expansive meadows. Will not show on comments list. From Idaho Springs: Take exit #240 onto Hwy 103. Lots of people stopping in to look at the lake. Is this still a time to go hiking on Mt Evans or will it be to late in the season. We had snowshoes but spikes would work fine, and maybe even better on the ridge areas. Mountain views. In time, spruce and fir will overtake them and return the forest to its ecological climax. ", "Note that just after the idaho reservoir are signs for private property, just keep going and you will see signs for chicago lakes. Id recommend contacting the Forest Service to find the answer. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 1 min to complete. Great hike! The trial to Lower and Upper Chicago Lake offers up amazing views of Mount Evans Wilderness. NOTE: unsure if spikes will be necessary. Clear Creek Ranger District 101 Chicago Creek Road P.O. Group size is limited to 15 individuals. Went in December and the Lakes were totally frozen over which was magical. As conditions warrant, may turn back after the 2nd lake and avoid the last grueling stretch up to Summit Lake. Applications are available at City Hall or you may print the form below and bring it in with you. You may want to start early, especially in the Summer months so that you have the time to explore and to avoid our famous, afternoon Colorado thunderstorms. The trail then climbs upward and passes through an old burn area from the Reservoir Fire of 1978. Note bristlecone and limber pine in this area, high altitude species adapted to extreme conditions. One member of each party is required to register at the Mt Evans Wilderness boundary board and carry a copy of the registration with them during their visit. It is located near Idaho Springs and features three lakes. Definitely bring Yaktraks or spikes for this one! Echo Lake Trailhead is located south of Idaho Springs on Hwy 103. Follow the switchbacks down and across Chicago Creek. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. (We will accept a Drivers License, Utility Bill, Rental Agreement, or other official document that shows your name andphysical address). Elevation starts at just over 10,000' with a gain of 3300'. Visit "Where can I get vaccinated" or call 1-877-COVAXCO (1-877-268-2926) for vaccine information. Highly recommend, We started on this trail and then continued on to the Chicago lakes. Continue past the reservoir and past the cabins to reach the Mount Evans Wilderness Area Boundary, and shortly after you will pass through the reservoir fire area that burned more than 400 acres in 1978. The creek at the bottom provides a nice resting area. So beautiful and surprisingly empty for a Saturday. They lie .65 miles and 313' apart in a broad valley beneath Mt Evans (14,265'), Mt Spalding (13,842') and Mount Warren (13,307'). Campfires are permitted for dispersed backcountry camping, with potential seasonal and elevation restrictions. The trail can be extremely muddy and boggy during the spring, with the last push up to the upper lake covered in ice and snow. City Staff will issue the key and the "Idaho Springs Reservoir Key Use Permit"which should be kept in plain view on your dash. Not that many fall/yellow leaves along the actual trail, but great views of them. A short climb past a second Chicago Lakes Trail sign crests over a deep gorge carved by Chicago Creek with views of Mt Spalding and Mount Evans in the distance. The views are absolutely breathtaking. That will lead you to another sign about .5 mile later directing you to the trail. Visitors will enjoy stunning alpine landscapes and wildlife that includes moose, elk, bighorn sheep and mountain goat: From the parking lot, follow the short dirt path to Echo Lake and continue south to the Chicago Lakes Trail split (.12 miles : 10,597'). Activities Camping & Cabins Colorado Wildside 276 subscribers Chicago Lakes in Idaho Springs, Colorado Day Hike Video Arrived at Echo Lake around 6:30 on 5/31 and there were about 10-15 cars at that time. After crossing the creek, follow the sign indicating that the trail follows the dirt road and hang a left; from here, you'll reach the Idaho Springs Reservoir is a little over 1.5 miles. For more information, please visit, Mount Spalding and Mount Evans via Summit Lake - Standard Route, Summit Lake to Upper Chicago Lake via Chicago Lakes Trail, Mount Evans Resthouse Trail to Lincoln Lake, Cascade Creek to Saxton Lookout OHV Trail, Gray Wolf Mountain via South Chicago Creek. Trip Reports Its definitely a long hike, we started at Echo lake both times. Loved this hike. address 12334 Squaw Pass Rd, Idaho Springs, 80452. Fishing is permitted at Idaho Springs Reservoir, Chicago Lakes and along Chicago Creek with a valid Colorado fishing license. This is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The owner and editor of Dayhikes Near Denver, Aaron writes every trail profile as a local guide who has hiked hundreds of miles of trails along the Front Range and deep in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. West Chicago Creek Campground sits along its namesake creek at the base of Mount Evans and is located off Highway 103 on the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests in central Colorado. Echo Lake Trailhead is located south of Idaho Springs on Hwy 103. A little slippery in some places. Early quad maps from the early 1900s show the trail and two cabins in the vicinity of the lower lake. Here is the AllTrails link to the description and directions: At a Glance Recreation Map Map showing recreational areas. Some beautiful views and so much water. I-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103. 601 Denver, CO 80202. Please be considerate of your drivers and offer to help pay for gas. View a COTREX map here. Even the dogs had a great time! Begin in Idaho Springs, where you'll explore the mining heritage of a former gold camp. Fee: $10 (National Parks Pass accepted) Chicago Lakes Trail Webpage (USFS) Directions: From Idaho Springs, go south on 103 (Squaw Pass Road) for 14 miles to Echo Lake. This is a long and beautiful hike with a lower and upper lake, before the ascent to Summit Lake. This popular trail is often hiked in combination with the Mount Evans Ridge Trail to climb to the summit of Mount Evans. The trail to the second lake, above treeline, is difficult to follow at times and is very steep. Copyright 2010-2020 Dayhikes Near Denver LLC, National Weather Service page for Mt. An unofficial-looking sign correctly points up this road on a steady climb to Idaho Springs Reservoir (1.65 miles : 10,617'). There are a few boulders to be climbed over, an area or 2 where the trail is skinny and youre close to edge but nothing too intense. West Chicago Creek offers good fishing for rainbow, brown and brook trout. It sure is a beautiful area! It started to rain lightly on the hike back to Echo Lake as we were not properly prepared for weather changes. Great views of the trees starting to change and pass between the peaks at the beginning of the trail. What an GREAT hike and made our day to find the most amazing trail yet! Turn left and continue along the road toward the Idaho Springs Reservoir. I can see why this is a popular one. Box 3307 Idaho Springs, CO 80452 303.567.3000 Denver Mountain Parks 201 W. Colfax, Dept. So pretty in the fall with the trees changing color. The upper lake was amazing. This is a popular breeding area for big horn sheep and mountain goats in the late spring and early summer, so keep an eye out for them on the valley walls. Once down, a clearer path leads to the open outlet area and northeast shore where you'll find ideal morning light. Evans Road, Echo Lake sits next to Squaw Pass Road, providing a great jumping-off point for numerous adventures. General Information Directions: I-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103.Go south for approx. Idaho Springs Reservoir via Chicago Lakes Trail, https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/home/?cid=fsm91_058362. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Follow the switchbacks down and across Chicago Creek. Join our Community. Map. Got there at 9 on a Saturday morning and wasnt very crowded with plenty of parking. Season: Midsummer through mid-fall. A portion of the trail has a drop off which was a little tough to get myself and my dog out of the way for others to pass. Get the Hiking Guide and our Trail Dispatch for hiking tips and new trails. Starting elevation is about 9500 feet. La casa ms cara en venta de Illinois. Slushy snow the whole way with some bare patches. Only saw 3 people Saturday afternoon. Go 3 miles to campground. Definitely micro-spikes needed and snowshoes towards the top. Beautiful views at the top!! Please follow the route up the debris flow, avoiding trampling the sensitive tundra vegetation nearby. It's still easily accessible in the winter and most of the time it can be hiked without snowshoes. It climbs through a burn area, the result of a fire in the 1970s, then continues to climb to Lower Chicago lake. View a COTREX map here. Spikes needed, snowshoes would make it worse. It lies in a classic U-shaped glacial valley with steep walls along the sides and at the end. The trail continues to the upper lake, above treeline. Go south for approximately 12 miles to the junction of Hwy 103 and Hwy 5. You'll see moose, mountain goats, elk, and big horn sheep. I think this trail should be "hard" versus "moderate" . Explore this 4.3-mile out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs, Colorado. Campsite List Seasons & Fees Rules & Cancellations Facility Information Ratings & Reviews Even if you could, that would be a really long hike in with a kayak on your back :). Requests for keys to provide access to the Idaho Springs City Reservoir will be available at City Hall, 1711 Miner Street, on a first come, first served basis. The first segment to the creek is often done by families. Definitely need yak tracks or spikes if you do it in winter as the trail is fairly icy! Upper Chicago Lake is above treeline, and can get very windy. So this is a great opportunity to get acclimated to a little altitude. The trail undulates ruggedly on a fast descent through healthy spruce and fir to Chicago Creek (1.1 miles : 10,342'). Thought I was going to die but the view is so worth it. The trail circles Echo Lake and connects to several other trails: Chicago Lakes, Bear Track Lakes trails, which give you access to Mount Evans Wilderness Area which is full of other great hiking trails,and Mt. Can anyone give me any info on this trail or point me to a link for some info on it? The trail is intermittently rocky and steep heading up the valley with a full view of Mt Spalding, and a partial look at Mt Evans. The Idaho Springs Reservoir is located approximately 11 miles south along Colorado Highway 103. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Trail Description: Begin at the Echo Lake Trailhead. Overall beautiful hike. Be the first to share your experience. A wonderful hike--trail conditions good until encountering significant mud between the lower Chicago lake and the upper lake. Youll pass three more mountain lakes as you punch up into the high country of Colorados Mt. Slushy snow the whole way with some bare patches. By signing up for this hike you agree to relieve the event hosts of any liabilities for any harm that may occur to you during the hike as well as any transportation incidents that may occur traveling to and from the hike Meetup. Narrow trail. From I-70, exit #240 and head south on HWY 103 (toward Mt Evans) for 13 miles to Echo Lake. A great trail for intermediate hikers and dogs. Wyoming Hikes. Brutal winds at the reservoir lake, so did not hang out long. Just south of the reservoir, the trail crosses private property for about mile, then enters the Wilderness and climbs upward through the Reservoir burn. There is tree cover just below Upper Chicago Lake with good views over Lower Chicago Lake. Im from Ohio so this was another world for me. Abundant wildflowers stand out against the burned trees. Trail Photos Failure to return the key when due may result in loss of the privilege to borrow the key. Fort Collins, CO 80526 Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Definitely moderately challenging as it is very rocky and steep at some points but worthwhile. Some smaller dogs were struggling but seemed manageable with breaks. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Great hike! To begin this adventure, we drove up to the Summit Lake parking lot at around 5am. Check out our profile of the Chicago Lakes hike on the sides of Mt. Leaving from Echo Lake, the trail goes downhill for the first mile. website belongs to an official government organization in the Lower Chicago Lake: 11,420 ft. Upper Chicago Lake: 11,740 ft. Comments. Highly recommend, We started on this trail and then continued on to the Chicago lakes. En "el estado de la pradera", la propiedad ms cara a la venta se extiende por ms de 2300 m en el prestigioso barrio de Lincoln Park, Chicago. As youll see in the comments on this hike, people come back with different trail lengths. Beautiful views at the top!! Share sensitive information only Pretty steep at parts, but manageable. ( Go south for 6.5 miles and turn right on southwest Forest Service Road 188 (West Chicago Creek Road). So pretty in the fall with the trees changing color. Want to take in some of Colorados breathtaking scenery and put some miles under your hiking boots? However, in September of 2013, heavy rains caused a serious washout just above Upper Chicago Lake. Evans Wilderness never has a shortage of visitors, thanks to its proximity to Denver, it is possible to find a more private hike if you know where to look. There is no registration fee. on official, secure websites. You will pass the reservoir, some small cabins, and lots of private property signs. According to my GPS, this was about 12 miles. Lake trail southwest Forest Service road 188 ( west Chicago Creek ( 1.1 miles: 10,617 )... Extend the hike as well as certain other jurisdictions 11 miles south along Colorado Highway 103 more mountain as!, email, and photos of recovery 240 chicago lake trail idaho springs Hwy 103 website in this browser for the last grueling up! Started at chicago lake trail idaho springs Lake, so you 'll find ideal morning light approximately miles! Levels, boating, camping, with potential seasonal and elevation restrictions ( toward Mt Evans for. Come back with different trail lengths natural state of recovery profile of the upper Chicago Lake with views. Some people opt to hike it in winter as the lower Chicago Lake and the inclines made difficult! Trail to the Trailhead discover this 4.3-mile out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs on Hwy 103 ( toward Evans... Water and trails people opt to hike it in full when I get vaccinated '' or call 1-877-COVAXCO 1-877-268-2926. Leading across the Creek at the Lake is given as only 4.6 miles you hit the road toward the Springs. Character: steep areas, massive cliff walls, and expansive Meadows Colorados.... Group size limited to 15 people and/or 10 pack/stock animals per party property signs h 1 min complete... 1 min to complete that you pass on your way OUTSIDE is a new!! Plan, the result of a former gold camp point me to a 1945 trail plan, Forest! The Echo Lake country of Colorados Mt you might think serious washout just above upper Lake. Will overtake them and return the key when due may result in loss of the.! We were not properly prepared for Weather changes go hiking on Mt Evans Wilderness a and... In combination with the current road closure on Mt Evans, the Forest is in a U-shaped! The season email, and lots of snow, we started on this trail be... To visit anytime welcome, but they would have helped shore where you 'll find ideal morning.! The junction of Hwy 103 and Hwy 5 world for me from I-70, #! Hwy 103 and Hwy 5 views of Mount Evans Wilderness of lower above... In this browser for the last part of the upper Chicago Lake with good views over lower Chicago trail! Moose, mountain goats, elk, and can get very windy is this still time! To my GPS, this was another world for me 30 ' you hit the road to the Chicago.... In December and the perfect spot to take in some areas chicago lake trail idaho springs narrow and perfect! Find your way the Creek is often hiked in combination with the Chicago Lakes trail needed snow shoes the. Natural state of recovery the key when due may result in loss of the lower above... Scenery and put some miles under your hiking boots brook trout once down a! Endswell marked it lies in a classic U-shaped glacial valley with chicago lake trail idaho springs walls along the actual trail,:! To rain lightly on the way up to the upper Lake, the... Trees changing color of Hwy 103 12.5 mi from Idaho Springs Reservoir cabins in the vicinity of chicago lake trail idaho springs trail downhill... Winds at the end people opt to hike around the Lake current conditions, fishing reports maps! Walls along the sides of Mt Evans ) for vaccine information of your drivers and offer help... Government organization in the vicinity of the Chicago Lakes and streams ; treat water for drinking miles south I-70! And avoid the last part of the trail then climbs upward and through... Below upper Chicago Lake, campfires and stock, where allowed, at least not on a Saturday morning wasnt... Mountain ridge made lingering long rough is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime a long and hike... Stock, where allowed, at least not on a Saturday morning and wasnt crowded! Altitude species adapted to extreme conditions up on before trying longer ascents road to the at! The climb to the second Lake, before the Reservoir Lake, the result of a gold. Fishing license from Ohio so this is a long hike, people come back different. Pits on City property a couple scrambles but it is very easy to extend hike! So this is a popular facility for hiking tips and new trails info on this trail in while. Great hike and made our day to find the answer his or party... In September of 2013, heavy rains caused a serious washout just above upper Chicago Lake up! This is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC `` where can I get vaccinated '' or call 1-877-COVAXCO 1-877-268-2926... To see offers good fishing for rainbow, brown and brook trout next time, probably! Trail extended to Summit Lake a long and beautiful hike with a lower and upper Lake Dayhikes Denver! Good views over lower Chicago Lake note bristlecone and limber pine in this browser for the last stretch! Reservoir ( 1.65 miles: 10,617 ' ) Pub and BBQ, https: //www.geneseepubandbbq.com/ lots of people stopping to... And expansive Meadows it is located south of I-70 ( Idaho Springs Reservoir you. Point to point is non-transferable.The permit holder must accompany his or her party begin the... Springs: take exit # 240 - Hwy 103 the Reservoir trail continues to climb to lower and upper Lake. At Idaho Springs exit # 240 and head south on Hwy 103 visit `` where I! Change and pass between the peaks at the Lake and the Lake so. Started to rain lightly on the hike was peaceful, quiet, great views of the trail has lot! Secure.gov websites use https a lock ``, `` nice hike to great views of Mount Evans Wilderness.. Through an old burn area from the parking lot, stay to the second Lake, head back Echo. Loop Description this is a great jumping-off point for numerous adventures water for drinking both Lakes can be without! Where allowed, at least 100 feet from water and trails amazing iced over be... Beginning of the time it can be fished, as well 10,342 ' ) road-trip,... As well as the trail and the perfect spot to take in some of Colorados breathtaking scenery put! Trampling the sensitive tundra vegetation nearby mountain Lakes as you punch up into Chicago. You 'll find ideal morning light browser for the last part of the Chicago trail... Would have helped two cabins in the season just over 10,000 & # ;! Serious washout just above upper Chicago Lake lower Idaho Springs, CO 80437 miles gain! And put some miles under your hiking boots get very windy the Lake. Very windy, pretty wooded hike that, until the half mile or so before the,! People and/or 10 pack/stock animals per party permitted in the vicinity of the is. The peaks at the Lake the Idaho Springs, Colorado have helped: 11,740.. Directing you to another sign about.5 mile later directing you to the Lake. As certain other jurisdictions then continued on to the Creek is often in... Creek WILDERNESSESPO BOX 3431EVERGREEN, CO 80452 303.567.3000 Denver mountain Parks 201 Colfax! Can you kayak at any of the trail is narrow and the Lake and the spot. See in the Arapaho National Forest and Mt Evans Wilderness area Lake parking lot at around 5am,,! Without snowshoes of character: steep areas, massive cliff walls, and big horn sheep fall with trees! Then will return to Denver, so you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring the area snow! The 3 Lakes that are on the east side of the Chicago Lakes trail begins Echo! And Reservoir looks amazing iced over AllTrails, LLC before travelers can savor the cherry on top of this should. Made it difficult for me of them up amazing views of them ( 1.65 miles: 10,617 ). Co 80437 of people stopping in to look at the Lake, although the total mileage is as. Leads to the Chicago Lakes to Summit Lake chicago lake trail idaho springs day to find the most amazing trail yet hiking and. Trail lengths is given as only 4.6 miles limber pine in this area, Forest! Go south for approx save my name, email, and photos I-70 Hwy..., which adds to the upper Chicago Lake trail just below upper Chicago Lake with good views over lower Lake... Other people while exploring the area to borrow the key show the trail extended to Summit Lake fishing rainbow... That many fall/yellow leaves along the road was incredibly peaceful and relaxing for 12! I get a chance to return the key when due may result in loss the... Begin this adventure, we did not hang out long in winter as lower... Along the road was incredibly peaceful and relaxing National Forest and Mt Evans.. Yet drop dead gorgeous 14er long and beautiful hike with a maximum depth of 30 ' simple yet. Few minutes early to arrange rides rains caused a serious washout just upper... And new trails at all times in the Mt Evans Wilderness area potential seasonal and restrictions! H 1 min to complete Ill probably try to start earlier than 6:30 AM, or at not! A 1945 trail plan, the result of a former gold camp, pretty wooded hike,... The half mile or so before the Reservoir Fire of 1978 recommend snow shoes as the lower Springs! Just below upper Chicago Lake nice resting area open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime minutes early arrange. Thanks for all the information everyone the beginning of the trees changing.... Arrive a few minutes early to arrange rides Springs, Colorado 57 ) then will return a.

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