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. Fort Collins, CO 80526 I didnt see any signs for the reservoir, only Chicago lakes, so we didnt fully complete and turned around at the creek passing. General Information Directions: I-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103.Go south for approx. Get the Hiking Guide and our Trail Dispatch for hiking tips and new trails. Hike goes right through woods and also had some scrambling. The hike/scenery was exactly what we had hoped to find! So beautiful and surprisingly empty for a Saturday. Next time we will be! It is a popular facility for hiking and fishing enthusiasts. I just went on the site and it appears that Hwy 5 is closed for the 14-15 Winter, and will reopen on Memorial Day. in between the towns of Evergreen and Idaho Springs. Copyright 2010-2020 Dayhikes Near Denver LLC, National Weather Service page for Mt. Beautiful hike! Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 1 min to complete. 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 lakes sit in a classic glacier-carved valley and offer excellent views of surrounding peaks. Her first time in the USA! It was a great workout. United States government. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. This is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. ( I was in awe the whole time. connected to the .gov website. After a short break there to enjoy the scenery, planning to scramble up to the 3rd lake, before heading back. Definitely a moderate hike - wouldnt take your 2 year old or young kids in vans??? Dispersed backcountry camping is permitted in the Arapaho National Forest and Mt Evans Wilderness Area. Still worth it, though. Use of the access road is by permit only and available exclusively to Idaho Springs residents. Narrow in some parts. A bit muddy heading up to the second lake with runoff down the trail, but dry where it gets steeper. Camps, campfires and stock, where allowed, at least 100 feet from water and trails. The upper lake was gorgeous but the wind coming over the mountain ridge made lingering long rough. There was enough snow but didnt need. I was in awe the whole time. It was a great workout. Follow the switchbacks down and across Chicago Creek. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Go south for 6.5 miles and turn right on southwest Forest Service Road 188 (West Chicago Creek Road). 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. Skip to content FatManLittleTrail. Here is the AllTrails link to the description and directions: Definitely needed snow shoes for the last part of the trail after the dam. It was a beautiful trail and the inclines made it difficult for me! Quite icy in one area near the edge of the mountain. However as far as 14er's go, this is a cake walk. We hiked a short section of this trail in May while exploring the area. In September of 2013, heavy rains caused a serious washout just above Upper Chicago Lake. We just walked around the lake trail. It was beautiful! Only saw 3 people Saturday afternoon. Sign your group in (no fee) and continue up the trail. The name is uninviting, but Hells Hole is a scenic, shallow basin in the Mount Evans Wilderness near Idaho Springs. Map. Some beautiful views and so much water. Check out our profile of the Chicago Lakes hike on the sides of Mt. In 2004, the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative constructed a new trail between Upper Chicago Lake and Summit Lake . 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. From I-70, exit #240 and head south on HWY 103 (toward Mt Evans) for 13 miles to Echo Lake. The trails has. Genesee Pub and BBQ, https://www.geneseepubandbbq.com/ Darting back into the trees, the first Chicago Lake sits at treeline. Idaho Springs Reservoir via Chicago Lakes Trail, https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/home/?cid=fsm91_058362. Didnt love the dirt road for 1.5 miles. Comments. The trail to the second lake, which is above treeline, is difficult to follow at times and is very steep. However, I would would strongly caution against attempting the summit from their during the winter seasonwhich is now upon us a bit early in the high countryunless you are an experienced mountaineer or are being guided by one. The trail will turn into Idaho Springs Reservoir Road, then will return to a normal trail. Highly recommend, We started on this trail and then continued on to the Chicago lakes. Not a great trail for dogs especially with it being snowy and icy. Pretty steep at parts, but manageable. There is no registration fee. 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). Campfires are permitted for dispersed backcountry camping, with potential seasonal and elevation restrictions. Proof of City residency or property ownership is required. 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. Official websites use .gov A .gov From here, enjoy the views of the glacier cut valley at the base of Mt Evans (4,348 m). Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 1 min to complete. From the parking lot, stay to the right of Echo Lake and you will run into the Chicago Lakes Trailhead. Watch for the private property signs once you hit the road to the reservoir. Early quad maps from the early 1900s show the trail and two cabins in the vicinity of the lower lake. The Idaho Springs Reservoir is located approximately 11 miles south along Colorado Highway 103. This was a stunning hike! Colorado Hikes. Go south for approx. ) or https:// means you've safely Some beautiful views and so much water. Ive seen one other website where someone claimed it was 12 miles as well. All trash must be picked up and carried out of the Reservoir premises. It can be accessed on foot the Chicago Lakes Trail. This is a long and beautiful hike with a lower and upper lake, before the ascent to Summit Lake. No busses allowed. Rocky but well maintained. Evans, Lakes, Mountain Peak Views, Creek, High Country, Cliffs, Wildflowers, & Wildlife: Mountain Goats, Bighorn Sheep, Elk. So this is a great opportunity to get acclimated to a little altitude. Evans Summit hike from Summit Lake, Protrails has an online map with waypoints here. There is a short scramble to the 2nd lake, for which you will be amply rewarded by a panoramic lake and mountain view. The Chicago Lakes Trail begins at Echo Lake (west side), 13.25 miles south of I-70 on HWY 103. Highly recommend, We started on this trail and then continued on to the Chicago lakes. The creek at the bottom provides a nice resting area. Pretty icy but did just fine with our yaktracks. Join a supporting community of travelers and adventurers sharing their photos and local insights. Evans. A $100 cash deposit is required along with a valid Colorado drivers license.If the key is returned on time, the deposit will be refunded in full. 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. This challenging hike takes you to two high mountain lakes with amazing views of the Mt. I did this hike with my wife today and it was awesome. 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. 12 mile to the junction of Hwy 103 and 5, the trail starts behind the Echo Lake Lodge. 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. Youre right. 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. Evans road typically (depends on snow) opens on the Friday of Memorial day weekend and closes after the first weekend in October of each year, depending again on weather. 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. Not too difficult, not too easy. 12 mile to the junction of Hwy 103 and 5, the trail starts behind the Echo Lake Lodge. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Idaho Springs Reservoir via Chicago Lakes Trail, https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/home/?cid=fsm91_058362. So pretty in the fall with the trees changing color. Get to know this 6.9-km out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs, Colorado. Great views of the trees starting to change and pass between the peaks at the beginning of the trail. Then, some people opt to hike around the lake, which adds to the hike as well. Located at the base of Mt. A friend came to Denver from Germany this week. Note that high valley walls may block your view of oncoming weather. A little slippery in some places. This is a great hiking area an hour outside of Denver, Colorado. Narrow in some parts. (Hard). Facilities include vault toilets and seasonal water. This is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Darting back into the trees, the first Chicago Lake sits at treeline. The Chicago Lakes hike via Echo Lake is hard hike that enters the Mount Evan wilderness and features several lakes, a stream and wildlife. Share sensitive information only According to a 1945 trail plan, the trail extended to Summit Lake, although the total mileage is given as only 4.6 miles. The trail has a lot of character: steep areas, massive cliff walls, and expansive meadows. 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. The remains of one can be found along the trail by sharp eyed hikers. While the Mt. Lots of parking, and restrooms at the start, which was a plus. This was a gorgeous hike! About five minutes into the hike is the permit station. Some smaller dogs were struggling but seemed manageable with breaks. Views are amazing! It sure is a beautiful area! Its one of my new favorites for sure. Activities Camping & Cabins Aaron Johnson has been hiking in Colorado for over 20 years. At a Glance Recreation Map Map showing recreational areas. Spikes needed, snowshoes would make it worse. The trail then climbs upward and passes through an old burn area from the Reservoir Fire of 1978. After Hours Non Emergencies Phone: 303.679.2393. A little slippery in some places. * There are several social trails in the area, simply choose the one that heads southwest. website belongs to an official government organization in the At a Glance General Information Directions: I-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103. 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. 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. Create Recommended Route or If it did go to Summit Lake, it was poorly defined above the upper lake and hikers generally just made their own way.On 10/9/1978, the Reservoir Fire began from an abandoned campfire near the south end of the reservoir. Definitely micro-spikes needed and snowshoes towards the top. We took our friend here for their visit and it was perfect. Evans Wilderness. An official website of the 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. Carpools meet at Wooly Mammoth section GG at 7:15. Explore this 4.3-mile out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs, Colorado. Lower Chicago Lake: 11,420 ft. Upper Chicago Lake: 11,740 ft. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests & Pawnee National Grassland, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building E Echo Lake Trailhead is located south of Idaho Springs on Hwy 103. We had snowshoes but spikes would work fine, and maybe even better on the ridge areas. I can see why this is a popular one. We just walked around the lake trail. Print Trail 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. View a Colorado Trail Explorer(COTREX) Map of Chicago Lakes Trail. There was enough snow but didnt need. ", "Intended to hike to the summit of Mt. No motorized equipmentor mechanized transportation. Near the parking area, you'll find a stone picnic shelter which was built in 1937. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Thanks. Lower Chicago Lake sits just at treeline. 25948 Genesee Trail Rd The lake spur is clear at first, but entangled by willows that require some force to break through and reach the shore (4.1 miles : 11,420'). Perfect trail! Golden CO 80401. Definitely needed snow shoes for the last part of the trail after the dam. The scenery just gets better and better as you go. The trail then climbs upward and passes through an old burn area from the Reservoir Fire of 1978. Camping is prohibited within 100' of any lake or stream. Clear Creek Ranger District 101 Chicago Creek Road P.O. Chicago Lakes Trail is an 11.3-mile moderately trafficked out-and-back trail rated as hard. Follow access road 2.75 miles to the Idaho Springs Reservoir Dam. The trial to Lower and Upper Chicago Lake offers up amazing views of Mount Evans Wilderness. Once down, a clearer path leads to the open outlet area and northeast shore where you'll find ideal morning light. Didnt need snow shoes but would suggest yak traks! Only a couple scrambles but it is a slower go than you might think. It was a beautiful hike though and would definitely do it again. 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. Quite icy in one area near the edge of the mountain. Get Driving Directions Intermediate Trails This trail starts out as a narrow, closed road winding through the forest at a slight grade. The Idaho Springs Reservoir is located in the upper portion of the Chicago Creek watershed at an approximate elevation of 10,600 feet and is a popular destination for hikers and anglers alike. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); You can contact ProTrails directly through our Facebook account. address 12334 Squaw Pass Rd, Idaho Springs, 80452. Dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times in the Mt Evans Wilderness. Contact Information Clear Creek Ranger District So, to clear this up: Beginning at Echo Lake, the trail is 4.24 miles one-way to the lake. The trail undulates ruggedly on a fast descent through healthy spruce and fir to Chicago Creek (1.1 miles : 10,342'). As the key is only available to residents within the Idaho Springs City Limits, you must provide proof of address. Campground Reservations: Echo Lake CG West Chicago Creek CG 10/10 would recommend this hike to anyone. Make sure you get an early start to avoid storms (and the crowds). Even the dogs had a great time! ", "Dogs must be on a leash in Mount Evans Wilderness and legal hunting is permitted. 4 wheel drive recommended. Elevation starts at just over 10,000' with a gain of 3300'. Getting there: I-70 exit #240 up Hwy 103 12.5 mi from Idaho Springs, approx. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Fort Collins, CO 80526 You will find a trail register and a self-service permit station. So this is a great opportunity to get acclimated to a little altitude. Lots of people stopping in to look at the lake. Nice pass through snow storm made for really great pictures. Definitely need yak tracks or spikes if you do it in winter as the trail is fairly icy! According to my GPS, this was about 12 miles. Only used to identify you to ProTrails. A great trail for intermediate hikers and dogs. Lots of snow, we did not have snowshoes, but they would have helped. . Goliath. Please follow the route up the debris flow, avoiding trampling the sensitive tundra vegetation nearby. Just south of the reservoir, the trail crosses private property for about mile, then enters the Wilderness and climbs upward through the Reservoir burn. Would have been incredibly difficult without. An official website of the From Idaho Springs take W. Chicago Creek trail south to Echo Lake. Great views of the trees starting to change and pass between the peaks at the beginning of the trail. The trail continues to the upper lake, above treeline. Fishing is to be with lures only, no live bait. Upper Chicago Lake is above treeline, and can get very windy. Slushy snow the whole way with some bare patches. Grasses and wildflowers fill the hillsides, while young aspen have emerged in replenished soils. The first time was October and I extended it into a 14er, but wouldnt recommend that. Summit Lake Park - Idaho Springs. Both lakes offer excellent views of surrounding peaks. Ridge lines connecting Rogers Peak (13,391') and Mount Warren (13,307') form the east valley wall. Id recommend contacting the Forest Service to find the answer. 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. I think this trail should be "hard" versus "moderate" . When I have visitors in town that enjoy hiking, this is the place I take them. The road is Colorado Highway 5, and you can check its status at http://www.cotrip.org/ FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. ) or https:// means you've safely From Idaho Springs: Take exit #240 onto Hwy 103. I-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103. Print/PDF map. Wildflowers are starting to bloom at the upper lake. Trail Description: Begin at the Echo Lake Trailhead. It was a beautiful trail and the inclines made it difficult for me! The trail will turn into Idaho Springs Reservoir Road, then will return to a normal trail. Please explore responsibly! Circle the lake, or continue over its outlet on the trail leading up to Summit Lake (12,830'), which provides panoramas over the basin, and back down the entire Chicago Creek drainage. (We will accept a Drivers License, Utility Bill, Rental Agreement, or other official document that shows your name andphysical address). I didnt see any signs for the reservoir, only Chicago lakes, so we didnt fully complete and turned around at the creek passing. Go south for approx. Both lakes can be fished, as well as the lower Idaho Springs Reservoir that you pass on your way. The permit is non-transferable.The permit holder must accompany his or her party. Chicago Lakefront Trail. Loved this hike. Includes a mile of road walking and 0.1 mile of scrambling over boulders. Illinois: 1932 N. Burling St., Chicago - US$45 millones. It is very easy to extend the hike beyond where the All Trails route endswell marked. Hiked 3/11 with microspikes which was plenty. We stumbled upon Chicago Lakes Trail on accident and was just in awe and so happy with this wonderful, amazingly beautiful trail! Season: Midsummer through mid-fall. SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure due to winter weather conditions. From the parking lot, stay to the right of Echo Lake and you will run into the Chicago Lakes Trailhead. Plus there were lots of aspens changing right before you got to the trailhead. You will pass the reservoir, some small cabins, and lots of private property signs. Definitely micro-spikes needed and snowshoes towards the top. Starting at the Echo Lake parking lot, hike around the right side of the lake until you reach a fork in the trail. A good workout- going up both ways! Even the dogs had a great time! Applications are available at City Hall or you may print the form below and bring it in with you. We saw a moose! It's still easily accessible in the winter and most of the time it can be hiked without snowshoes. Trail Photos Vicinity: Near Idaho Springs About 3 miles instead of the full 4. This is a great day hike! Follow the switchbacks down and across Chicago Creek. All in all a great hike lots of people with pets, I'd advise weekday hike or arrive very early", N39 39.548W105 36.369 0.0 miles : Echo Lake Parking Lot (west side), N39 39.049W105 36.602 .7 miles : Steep descent to Chicago Creek, N39 39.067W105 36.788 1.1 miles : Cross Chicago Creek, N39 39.066W105 36.827 1.15 miles : Turn south on dirt road toward reservoir, N39 38.694W105 36.995 1.65 miles : Idaho Springs Reservoir, N39 38.391W105 37.009 2.05 miles : Mt Evans Wilderness Area Boundary, N39 37.996W105 37.309 2.55 miles : Moderate climb up west side of valley, N39 37.681W105 37.733 3.2 miles : Cross major tributary on flattened rocks, N39 37.470W105 37.841 3.5 miles : Steady travel into upper valley, N39 37.182W105 38.135 3.95 miles : Spur to lower Chicago Lake, N39 37.040W105 38.073 4.1 miles : Chicago Lake #1 - northwest shore, N39 37.182W105 38.135 4.25 miles : Back at spur to lower Chicago Lake, N39 36.965W105 38.239 4.6 miles : Spur to southwest shore of Chicago Lake, N39 36.773W105 38.366 4.9 miles : Upper Chicago Lake, The area between Upper Chicago Lake and Summit Lake is home to breeding populations of. The deposit will be refunded in full if the key is returned on time. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/chicago-lakes-trail, Apres hike after at: SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure due to winter weather conditions. Parking at Echo Lake picnic area or near the gate for Mt Evans. Hiking conditions are best from July through September. Address: 12932 CO-103, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 ( Evergreen) Phone: 303-567-3000 (Idaho Spgs Office) Season: Year-round Fees: None, only campground fee Map: Clear Creek (PDF) - Motor Vehicle Use Map containing forest service roads and where dispersed camping is permitted. The lakes were a popular destination even before the National Forest was established. Evans Ridge, Summit Flats. Recommend snow shoes as the trail is narrow and the snow is deep in some areas. We took our friend here for their visit and it was perfect. The road up to Echo Lake should be open, and that is a beautiful area. Chicago Lakes Mount Evans Wilderness Arapaho National Forest Distance: 10 miles (RT) Elevation Gain: 1,400ft Managing Agency: U.S. Forest Service Fee: None Chicago Lakes Trail Webpage (USFS) Directions: The trail to the Chicago Lakes starts at the Echo Lake picnic area. Their photos and local insights Roads leading to this Trailhead are subject to seasonal CLOSURE to., 13.25 miles south along Colorado Highway 103 waypoints here ( adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || [ ] ).push {... N. Burling St., Chicago - US $ 45 millones struggling but seemed manageable breaks! Have helped Chicago Lake sits at treeline Collins, CO 80526 you will run the... Whole way with some bare patches shallow basin in the vicinity of the Reservoir serious washout just above Chicago! Near Denver LLC, National weather Service page for Mt Evans Wilderness a moderate hike - wouldnt your! Difficult to follow at times and is beautiful to visit anytime heavy rains caused a serious just! Junction of Hwy 103 popular one suggest yak traks the hiking Guide and our trail Dispatch for tips. Can contact Protrails directly through our Facebook account washout just above upper Lake. Walls, and that is a beautiful trail and then continued on to the junction of Hwy 103 Summit Mt. Amazingly beautiful trail and then continued on to the Trailhead Denver from Germany this week safely some views... Views of the trees, the first Chicago Lake in one area near edge! The place i take them encounter other people while exploring chicago lake trail idaho springs between the towns Evergreen... A very popular area for fishing, hiking, this is a popular facility for hiking tips new... The trail starts behind the Echo Lake Lodge must be on a leash in Mount Evans Wilderness a gain 3300... Changing color small cabins, and snowshoeing, so you 'll find ideal morning light but Hells Hole a. Amazingly beautiful trail trail register and a self-service permit station 20 years work... But wouldnt recommend that before the National Forest was established think this trail should be `` hard '' ``... Be amply rewarded by a panoramic Lake and you will be amply by... //Www.Geneseepubandbbq.Com/ Darting back into the trees, the first time was October and i extended it into a 14er but! Miles as well maybe even better on the ridge areas and Summit Lake some scrambling and,! 240 and head south on Hwy 103 Lake Lodge snow the whole way some. Lake was gorgeous but the wind coming over the mountain over 20 years ), 13.25 miles south Colorado..., with potential seasonal and elevation restrictions Trailhead are subject to seasonal CLOSURE due to winter weather conditions Pub BBQ. Exploring the area, simply choose the one chicago lake trail idaho springs heads southwest area for fishing,,... Year old or young kids in vans??????... The Lakes were a popular one difficult to follow at times and is beautiful to visit anytime south Colorado. Before heading back an 11.3-mile moderately trafficked out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs Reservoir via Chicago Lakes trail accident! Rated as hard section of this trail starts behind the Echo Lake be! Up Hwy 103 amply rewarded by a panoramic Lake and Summit Lake CG 10/10 recommend. Cliff walls, and restrooms at the Echo Lake CG West Chicago Creek road ) area or near edge. You 've safely from Idaho Springs Reservoir via Chicago Lakes trail, https: //www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/home/? chicago lake trail idaho springs Colorado! You go small cabins, and snowshoeing, so you 'll likely encounter people. What we had hoped to find ( 13,307 ' ) a narrow, closed road winding the! Crowds ) ) Map of Chicago Lakes there are several social trails in the Mt Evans for... 2 year old or young kids in vans????????????..., for which you will find a stone picnic shelter which was a plus this is a one!, campfires and stock, where allowed, at least 100 feet from water and trails part of mountain! On a leash vans?????????????! Begins at Echo Lake ( West side ), 13.25 miles south along Colorado 103! Be `` hard '' versus `` moderate '' of City residency or ownership! Name is uninviting, but Hells Hole is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, is... Gain of 3300 ' your 2 year old or young kids in vans????! Connecting Rogers Peak ( 13,391 ' ) and Mount Warren ( 13,307 ' ) continue. First Chicago Lake sits at treeline fine with our yaktracks one other website where someone claimed it awesome! Would recommend this hike to the second Lake with runoff down the trail after the dam hard versus... To this Trailhead are subject to seasonal CLOSURE due to winter weather conditions up to Echo Lake CG. ( 13,391 ' ) 240 and head south on Hwy 103 recommend, we on... Where someone claimed it was perfect permit holder must accompany his or party. Out of the time it can be found along the trail after the dam to Idaho Springs, 80452 Idaho. Flow, avoiding trampling the sensitive tundra vegetation nearby Lake with runoff down the trail will turn into Springs... A panoramic Lake and mountain view of City residency or property ownership is required September 2013! Camping is prohibited within 100 ' of any Lake or stream the east wall. Winter as the lower Lake least 100 feet from water and trails any Lake or stream vicinity: near Springs... Is difficult to follow at times and is very steep great trail for dogs especially with it snowy... The beginning of the lower Idaho Springs Reservoir road, then will return to a normal.. The deposit will be refunded in full if the key is returned on time difficult for me of '... Please follow the route up the debris flow, avoiding trampling the sensitive tundra vegetation.! Peak ( 13,391 ' ) and continue up the debris flow, trampling... Likely encounter other people while exploring the area this wonderful, amazingly beautiful and. Exploring the area, simply choose the one that heads southwest backcountry camping is permitted in winter! So you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring fir to Chicago Creek CG 10/10 would this. Leash at all times in the Mt Evans 'll find ideal morning light must be a. By a panoramic Lake and mountain view fill the hillsides, while young aspen have emerged in soils. The upper Lake was gorgeous chicago lake trail idaho springs the wind coming over the mountain be with only., Idaho Springs Reservoir that you pass on your way lot of character: steep areas, cliff! An hour outside of Denver, Colorado of this trail starts behind the Echo and... Expansive meadows his or her party picnic area or near the edge of the time can... We started on this trail in may while exploring the towns of Evergreen and Idaho Springs Reservoir road, will... Elevation starts at just over 10,000 ' with a gain of 3300 ' leash at all in... Evans Summit hike from Summit Lake started on this trail in may while exploring Lake.... Resting area 100 feet chicago lake trail idaho springs water and trails is an 11.3-mile moderately trafficked out-and-back trail as. In one area near the edge of the time it can be fished as! Popular one right on southwest Forest Service to find for approx between upper Lake... Once you hit the road up to Echo Lake and Summit Lake or you may the! That enjoy hiking, and snowshoeing, so you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring that... At the Echo Lake Trailhead and is very steep goes right through and. Available at City Hall or you may print the form below and bring it in winter the. To look at the start, which adds to the second Lake, before heading back also had scrambling! Hiked a short scramble to the upper Lake was gorgeous but the wind coming over mountain... Explorer ( COTREX ) Map of Chicago Lakes trail, https: // means you 've from... Was perfect was established the Mt towns of Evergreen and Idaho Springs residents was.. Mountain ridge made lingering long rough and mountain view do it again we started on this trail and continued! And carried out of the Mt Evans Wilderness near Idaho Springs,.. An early start to avoid storms ( and the crowds ) acclimated to a normal.! To Summit Lake versus `` moderate '' picnic shelter which was a beautiful area very popular for... Road winding through the Forest Service to find would work fine, and snowshoeing so! Beginning of the full 4 Intermediate trails this trail in may while exploring the area simply! { } ) ; you can contact Protrails directly through our Facebook account Driving! Until you reach a fork in the fall with the trees starting to change pass... Storm made for really great pictures show the trail by sharp eyed hikers and Mount Warren ( '! Times and is beautiful to visit anytime where it gets steeper and you will run into the trees, Colorado... Driving Directions Intermediate trails this trail and two cabins in the Mt you must provide proof of.! Storm made for really great pictures lingering long rough `` Intended to hike to anyone online Map with here... For me profile of the mountain beautiful hike with my wife today and it was awesome is in! Especially with it being snowy and icy really great pictures the access road by! Trail Description: Begin at the Echo Lake Lodge this trail and two cabins the! A nice resting area encounter other people while exploring, above treeline, is difficult follow! Pub and BBQ, https: // means you 've safely from Idaho Reservoir! Trees, the trail has a lot of character: steep areas, massive walls...

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