Blue Lakes Mount Sneffels
Three stunning turquoise alpine lakes nestled in a glacial basin beneath the majestic Mount Sneffels, offering a challenging but rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Blue Lakes Mount Sneffels
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Three stunning turquoise alpine lakes nestled in a glacial basin beneath the majestic Mount Sneffels, offering a challenging but rewarding hike.
"My favorite part of this hike was that we backpacked into Blue lakes and camped near the lower lake the night before and after the summit push."
Check Trail Status First
The Blue Lakes Trail is undergoing reconstruction and may be closed. Always check current conditions before you go. :information_desk:
Pack Water Filter
Save weight by filtering water from the lakes. Essential for longer hikes. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Turquoise Trio
Lower, Middle, and Upper Blue Lakes
Three stunning alpine lakes with vibrant turquoise water, nestled beneath Mount Sneffels.
Mount Sneffels Summit Views
Summit of Mount Sneffels
For experienced hikers, the summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
Wildflower Displays
Along the Blue Lakes Trail
During summer months, the trail is often adorned with beautiful wildflowers, adding to the scenic beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permit System & Closures
Trail Difficulty & Preparation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Status First
The Blue Lakes Trail is undergoing reconstruction and may be closed. Always check current conditions before you go. :information_desk:
Pack Water Filter
Save weight by filtering water from the lakes. Essential for longer hikes.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail is rough and has significant elevation gain. Good footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Leave No Trace
Respect the pristine environment. Pack out everything you pack in. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Status First
The Blue Lakes Trail is undergoing reconstruction and may be closed. Always check current conditions before you go. :information_desk:
Pack Water Filter
Save weight by filtering water from the lakes. Essential for longer hikes.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail is rough and has significant elevation gain. Good footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Leave No Trace
Respect the pristine environment. Pack out everything you pack in. :evergreen_tree:
Consider Camping
Backpacking to Blue Lakes allows for a more relaxed pace and better summit attempts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Lakes, with many calling them a 'must-see' Colorado destination. The vibrant turquoise water and stunning mountain scenery are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some find the hike challenging and note the potential for trail closures due to ongoing reconstruction.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Lakes Trailhead is typically accessed via a gravel road. Some sources mention it's about 10 miles of gravel road, taking around 45 minutes to drive. Be prepared for rough conditions. Access can also be gained via Yankee Boy Basin.
The gravel road can be rough, and high-clearance vehicles are often recommended. Check road conditions before you go, especially after inclement weather.
Yes, navigation apps like AllTrails are highly recommended as the trail can be easy to get lost on, especially in certain sections.
The hike to the three Blue Lakes is approximately 8.6 to 9 miles round trip, depending on the exact route and how far you explore.
Expect significant elevation gain, around 2,500 feet, as the trail ascends to the alpine lakes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A permit system is planned for 2026 and beyond. The trail is also subject to closures for reconstruction, so always check the latest information before your visit.
Currently, there are no specific entrance fees mentioned for the Blue Lakes Trail itself, but be aware of potential future permit costs and reconstruction-related access changes.
As an outdoor hiking trail, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, closures for reconstruction may affect access.
Given the upcoming permit system and ongoing reconstruction, it's best to monitor official announcements for when permits will be available and how to purchase them.
Winter hiking is generally not recommended due to snow, ice, and avalanche risk. The trail is best enjoyed during the summer and early fall months.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, and bring rain gear as mountain weather can change rapidly. Sun protection is also crucial.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Blue Lakes Trail, but they must be kept on a leash and you must clean up after them.
The trailhead is undergoing reconstruction, which includes the addition of restrooms and kiosks. Check for the latest updates on available facilities.
Backpacking and camping near the Blue Lakes is a popular option for those wanting to break up the hike or summit Mount Sneffels.
The lakes are famous for their incredibly vibrant turquoise color, caused by glacial silt and mineral deposits.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakes themselves offer stunning reflections and vibrant colors. The surrounding peaks, especially Mount Sneffels, provide dramatic backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is subject to regulations in National Forests. Check with the Uncompahgre National Forest for current drone policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lakes. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color.
The areas around each of the three lakes offer unique perspectives. The trail leading up to them also provides increasingly dramatic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider breaking up the hike by backpacking and camping near the lower lake, which can make the experience more manageable and enjoyable for kids. Ensure you pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for changing mountain weather. For families seeking a shorter, less intense experience in the Mount Sneffels area, exploring Yankee Boy Basin offers stunning scenery with easier access and less demanding trails. This can be a great alternative for younger children or those new to mountain hiking, while still providing a taste of the San Juan Mountains' beauty.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Remember to pack your own food and water to avoid expensive purchases on the road. While the trail itself is free, be aware of potential future permit costs associated with the new system planned for 2026.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best colors and avoid harsh midday sun. For those interested in capturing the summit of Mount Sneffels, plan your visit during a period of stable weather. The dramatic lighting on the peak can be breathtaking.
If you're interested in astrophotography, the remote location offers dark skies, but be prepared for cold temperatures if staying overnight. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Blue Lakes Trail Experience
It begins in a dense forest before opening up to increasingly spectacular views as you ascend. The journey is often described as challenging but incredibly rewarding, with the vibrant turquoise waters of the lakes being the ultimate prize. Many hikers choose to backpack into the Blue Lakes area, camping near the lower lake. This allows for a more leisurely pace and provides opportunities to explore the lakes and potentially attempt the summit of Mount Sneffels without the pressure of a single-day push.
The trail is known for its rugged terrain, so proper hiking footwear and preparation are crucial. It's important to note that the Blue Lakes Trail is undergoing significant reconstruction, including trailhead improvements and the addition of facilities. A permit system is also slated to be implemented in the future. Always check for current closures and access information before planning your trip.
Summiting Mount Sneffels
+1 The route from Blue Lakes offers a scenic approach, but the final ascent is steep and exposed.Many who attempt the summit choose to backpack to the Blue Lakes the day before. This strategy allows for acclimatization and a less rushed start to the summit push.
The weather on Mount Sneffels can change rapidly, so checking forecasts and being prepared for all conditions is paramount. If weather turns dicey, turning back is the safest option. Even if you don't plan to summit, the views from the Blue Lakes area looking up at Mount Sneffels are spectacular. The sheer scale and ruggedness of the peak are awe-inspiring and make for incredible photographs.
The Geology of the Blue Lakes
These fine particles, known as rock flour, are created by glaciers grinding against bedrock. When sunlight hits these particles, it scatters the blue wavelengths of light more effectively, giving the lakes their characteristic vibrant hue. This phenomenon is common in glacial lakes around the world.The lakes themselves are situated in a glacial basin, carved out by ancient glaciers that once covered this region of the San Juan Mountains. The dramatic cirques and U-shaped valleys are testament to the powerful erosive forces of ice over millennia. The surrounding peaks, including Mount Sneffels, are composed of volcanic rock, which has been shaped and sculpted by these glacial processes.
This unique geological setting contributes to the overall dramatic and pristine beauty of the area. The combination of volcanic geology, glacial sculpting, and the presence of mineral-rich water creates a landscape that is both scientifically fascinating and visually stunning.
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