If you’re looking for a scenic and adventurous camping destination in the Rocky Mountains, look no further than the Blue Lakes Trail in the Mt Sneffels Wilderness, Colorado. This trail will take you to three stunning alpine lakes, each with a different shade of blue, surrounded by rugged peaks and wildflowers. You’ll also get to enjoy spectacular views of the 14,150-foot Mt Sneffels, one of Colorado’s most iconic mountains.
The trail starts at the Blue Lakes Trailhead, about 5 miles west of Ridgway, and climbs steadily through a forest of aspen and pine trees. After about 3.5 miles, you’ll reach the Lower Blue Lake, the largest and most accessible of the three. This is where most campers choose to set up their tents, as there are plenty of flat and grassy spots near the lake. You’ll need a permit to camp here, which you can get for free at the trailhead or online.
The Lower Blue Lake is a great place to relax, swim, fish, or just admire the scenery. You can also explore the nearby waterfall, which feeds the lake from the Middle Blue Lake. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can continue hiking up to the Middle and Upper Blue Lakes, which are smaller but equally beautiful. The trail gets steeper and rockier as you ascend, and you’ll have to cross some snowfields and streams along the way. The Middle Blue Lake is about 1 mile from the Lower Blue Lake, and the Upper Blue Lake is another 0.5 mile from there. Both lakes are nestled in glacial cirques, and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also camp at these lakes, but the sites are more limited and exposed.
The Blue Lakes Trail is such a fantastic spot for hikers and campers, especially during the lovely summer and fall seasons when the wildflowers are just stunning. It’s a great idea to make your campsite reservation early, as they get booked up fast. Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as it can get chilly at night. And don’t miss the chance to take some incredible photos of the Blue Lakes to show off to your loved ones!
The Blue Lakes Trail is absolutely amazing and one of the most unforgettable camping experiences you can have in Colorado. It’s a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, excitement, and peacefulness that will transport you to another world. Whether you stay for one night or many, you’ll always cherish the incredible feeling of waking up to the breathtaking Blue Lakes and the magnificent Mt Sneffels.
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Lower, Middle and Upper Blue Lakes via Blue Lakes Trail – AllTrails
