Access:The Gore Valley trail is accessible from various points throughout the Town of Vail. Your day will be filled with mountain views, abundant wildflowers, mature aspen and evergreen forests. The trail also passes a series of moraines (rock/sediment piles left from glacial retreats), which are always fascinating. Karl Wolfgang While the first part of the hike is steep, the incline is gradual for most of the way, and it's a very enjoyable hike to do between June and October. Crowds:This is a very popular trail at certain times of the season. Really liked this trail, different from many others. Follow this rough, dirt road about 1.8 miles until it ends at the trailhead. But very few people made the trip there. At mile 4, the trail forks; crossing Gore Creek leads you over Red Buffalo Pass to Summit County (7 miles from the trailhead to Red Buffalo Pass), the left fork goes to Gore Lake (6 miles from the trailhead to Gore Lake). Learn More. Very scenic on the way to the fall. At 4.5 km, just past the small creek crossing, continue left on the trail towards the western side of the trail. Amazing beautiful views all the way up and back! From here, climb steeply for approximately one mile on an open hillside. At mile 9.1, you will cross the Piney River and see a trailhead for Lower Piney River Trail - FDT 1885 on the left. Only used to identify you to ProTrails. At mile 6.5 you will pass Red and White Mtn Road-FSR 734. Length:3.6 miles (one way)Difficulty:Moderate. Trip Reports Photography by Walk up Fall Line Drive a mile to the trailhead. After enjoying your well-earned time at the lake, follow the same trail back, through Pitkin Creek drainage, to finish your hike! There are some short steep sections along the way. The trail ends on Davos Road. Schroon lake , NY 12870 . East and West Partner, at 3,977 m, reside above the lake. Another short, steep push to 3.8 miles (10,975') moderates in a transitional forest beneath towering, sculpted walls of the upper valley. If youve huffed all the way up the arduous singletrack to Eagles Nest and you just moved here, congratulations: you can finally call yourself a local. Please explore responsibly! Obtain their Colorado Fishing Regulations handbook for regulations. Travel east from Vail on I-70 to Exit 180 for East Vail. Park in town and take the free bus to the trailhead. website belongs to an official government organization in the Past the deck there will be a trail that you can follow out onto the edge of the mountain called the W Vail Trail. Beautiful hike with great fall colors right now!! Saw several marmots on the way from the fall to the lake. Join the fun on weekends, when the lively crowds are always . Directions: From Vail, continue east on I-70 to exit 180. The Pitkin Lake Trailhead is located .3 miles east of Exit #180 from I-70 on the North Frontage Road. I will be back same time next year, Highly recommend doing this trail asap because the leaves are insanely beautiful all around Vail and on the trail right now! This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness regulations are posted at the trailhead. The Pitkin Trail begins in East Vail and ends at Pitkin Lake: The first mile of the trail is strenuous as it climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley. The Pitkin Lake Trail climbs 2,886' in several steep stages into the upper valley, where the landscape opens to rolling alpine meadows on the approach to Pitkin Lake For easy access to a tucked-away mountain lake, its hard to beat the six-mile round-trip hike to Beaver Lake. Beautiful hike! More information at www.hikevail.net. Beautiful paved path popular for walking and biking with great mountain, aspen trees, and stream views. Pitkin Lake Trail One of the more challenging hikes in Vail, Pitkin Lake Trail is a 10.5-mile, out-and-back trail that carves its way through Eagles Nest Wilderness. Booth Lake is a lake located just 5.4 miles from Vail, in Eagle County, in the state of Colorado, United States, near Bighorn, CO. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including cutthroat trout and others here. . Bowl of Tears 19. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Length:VariesDifficulty:Varies Crowds:Varies. Insider Hints for Pitkin Lake Trail 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Turning right will take you to the remainder of the North Trail. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Pitkin lake trail in East Vail, Colorado is similiar to the popular Booth lake trail in that the final destination is a scenic mountain lake. 5. Take the I-70 E from Vail. At the signed junction with West Grouse Creek trail at 1 mile, keep left. Stay right here. Went Friday at noon and saw 4 other groups total in all 10miles. Bolts Lake 15. Holy Cross Ranger District 24747 US Highway 24 Minturn, CO 81645 970.827.5715, White River National Forest 900 Grand Ave. P.O. Trail Adopted By:Howard Head Sports Medicine, Length:4.8 miles (one way)Difficulty:More Difficult. Pitkin Lake is one of the best hikes near vail, not only because it provides views of the Gore Range, but also takes you to two waterfalls . A little muddy near the top. This trail offers excellent views of the surrounding mountains. It fills a large cirque just above treeline at the head of a broad, glacier-carved valley. Robert Kagan - George A. Kasem - John Kasich - John Katko - Thomas Kean - Thomas Kean mlaji - Joseph Warren Keifer - Kenneth McKellar - Fred Keller - Frank B. Kellogg - James A. Kelly - Laura Kelly - John F. Kennedy - John L. Kennedy - Kerry Kennedy - P. J. Kennedy - Robert F. Kennedy - Ted Kennedy - John W. Kern - John F. Kerry - Harley M . The trail moderates on the edge of a thinning forest (3.35 miles : 10,765'), relaxing for a spell through small clearings and spruce stands. Will not show on comments list. Big Spruce Lake 10. From westbound I-70, exit #180 and turn right (east) on the north frontage road. Better yet, park for free in one of the public garages at Vail, Lionshead, or Beaver Creek villages and confine your exploration (and impact on the wilderness) to the in-bounds terrain on those mountains. Bear Gulch Reservoir 4. Hike uphill through aspens and thimbleberry to an intersection with the Village to Village trail. The last 1/4 mile to Booth Lake is steep and rocky. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Campfires are permitted for dispersed camping in the backcountry, with potential seasonal restrictions. This stunning 4-bedroom home was designed by Lake Flato Architects and features beautiful custom furnishings. Enjoy the view and get ready for several more bench sections that have alternating steep climbs and then beautiful meadows that will be filled with wildflowers in July and August. Be mindful of private property in the area and only park in designated spaces. The water puddles, just walk on the grass to the right or left. A vault toilet is available. National Forest The Gore's are a rough and remote section of the Eagle's Nest Wilderness. Sign in on the sheet that is inside the box, if you desire. Incline is hard at points, I like that :) Lake was beautiful. The difficult trail gains nearly 3,000 feet in elevation and is most popular between the months of June and October. Access:Travel west on I-70 to Exit 173 for West Vail. more info: No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Beautiful trail, nice mix of forested trail and open meadows, several streams. After about 20 minutes, youll arrive at a couple of fishing ponds followed by an equipment storage yard, but dont worryfrom here the trail gets a lot more scenic, with one section circumnavigating Grouse Mountain. Booth Creek Falls, whose intertwined torrents plunge 60 feet, has earned its rep as Vails most dramaticand popularcascade. Private vehicle drop-off and pick-up at the trailhead will be allowed starting July 2022. . The trail takes you to another high alpine meadow filled with pine trees and numerous small creek crossings. Not highly traveled. Enjoy the view and get ready for several more bench sections that have alternating steep climbs and then beautiful meadows that will be filled with wildflowers in July and August. The grade levels out somewhat as the trail passes through mature aspen groves and spruce-fir forests and a series of moraines from an ancient glacial retreat. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6'. . Had the trail and lake to myself early on a Saturday! Views from here are excellent as this is one of the two highest points on the entire length of the North Trail. My wife and I ( both in our 50s) loved the hike. For outdoor enthusiasts, Vail has some of the most scenic hiking trails in the Vail Valley. But if you have spring Time allergies, you may want to think twice before going. At 5.6 km, while passing through a meadow flush with creeks, a cascading waterfall will be on your left. At the next signed junction, turn right to continue the descent to Buffehr Creek. That trail is longer, more arduous, and leads to Boulder Lake. When we lived in Colorado, Rick and I hiked to Booth Lake in July 2012 (without a pack). Leave them as you wish to nd them: Camping - camp at least 100 feet from streams, lakes, and trails Dogs The GPS reading is 38-40-442N and 106.35.303W . Pitkin Creek Trail Town of Vail Hiking Information for Pitkin Creek Trail Length : 4.8 miles (one way) Difficulty : More Difficult The first mile of the trail is strenuous as it climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley. Length:0.7 miles (one way)Difficulty:Easy. Can see a little bit of the front of the fall, but the back is fantastic! Together these gardens contain about 2,000 varieties of plants, including over 500 different varieties of wildflowers and alpine plants. I had to turn at the 2nd brook. We strongly encourage taking the freeEast Vail blue line shuttle, which runs every 30 minutes, from the Vail Transportation Center to the Columbine stop. Epic hike. What this trip may lack in overall miles, it more than makes up for in elevation gain, scrambling, boulder hopping, and overall hard miles on the trail. Fossil Ridge is behind the lake and rises to 12,749 elevation. Popular year-round, the trail is family and dog friendly. Aspen School District No. The trail then flattens out a bit, and you reach Booth Falls at mile two. 234 Pitkin, James 190 Plumb, Valerie 97 Poole, Martin 83 Richards, Jane 461 Ridge, James 217 . Walk east 1/3 of a mile up Bighorn Road (under the overpass) to the trailhead. Continue up this road about 2.7 miles to an intersection with the Lost Lake Road (#786) and continue left. Pitkin Lake is located in the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area and Holy Cross Ranger District of the White River National Forest. At the roundabout, take the Spraddle Creek Road exit. Kimberly Gavin, 12/07/2022 Town of Vail Hiking Information for Lost Lake Trail Length : 3.73 miles (one way) Difficulty : Easy From the trailhead, the trail follows a ridge dividing the Piney and Red Sandstone drainages while traveling though lodgepole pine and aspen groves. Lots of huckleberries! After passing a beaver pond on the right, cross Buffehr Creek. . Follow the road for about 0.4 miles and take a left at the trail sign to continue on the North Trail (Cortina Lane to Buffehr Creek section). With a round-trip hike of almost 11 miles and an elevation gain of over 3,000 feet, this wonderful hike is another one in the Vail area that is a must-do venture. At the bottom of the descent, turn left and follow the trail to the Buffehr Creek bridge. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=41395&actid=50, printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail, Williams Peak and Ginright (Fourmile)Timber Sale Project Area Restrictions. The pictures below exhibit wintery scenes I took in May, 2013, before the snow melted. The trail to the spectacular Pitkin Lake was steep (3000 of gain in five miles) and moderately rough, but this was to be the easiest part of the whole day. Exit here, turn left, and pass under the interstate. Turn left onto Big Horn Rd. Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers. Proceed west on the North Frontage Road for 1/4 mile. There should be a Forest Service sign indicating this is Red Sandstone Road #700 (Reset your odometer here). . Simply Fixable offers the most reasonable prices for its in Lake Ronkonkoma NY. Box 948 Glenwood Springs CO 81602 970.945.2521. Merge right and travel south 2.7 miles and turn left onto Cemetery Road. The Minturn Mile is best accessed after spending the day at Vail, but can be done so with skins and skis from the base. Incredible lake. Overnight camping in the wilderness requires a permit. The trail includes a mix of paved trail alongside the frontage road, trail separated from roads and running alongside Gore Creek and road shoulders designated as trail connector sections. After a mile, it crosses a bridge over Middle Creek in a cool spruce/fir forest. United States government. There are at least six false summits before you actually hit the lake, but worth every step! This is also a popular spot for picnics and camping. Access:Travel west on I-70 to exit 171 for Minturn, Leadville, and Highway 24. The area is characterized by its high mountain peaks, forests, and rivers. Did see 1 bear in the distance and 2 moose on the trail, so I recommend keeping your pup on leash. From Buffehr Creek, climb steeply for approximately one mile on an open hillside. For a map of the trail, please visitHiking Project. I saw two moose and a small herd of white mountain goats! Access:From I-70, take Exit 176 for Vail and cross under I-70 to the north side of the high-way. This description will assume you have access to the lifts at Vail by parking at one of the many resort/town parking areas. Stop by or call the Vail Welcome Center for more information. They also leave me with some of the best and most rewarding vi Beginning at an elevation of 9,397 feet, this hike provides an easy 2.8 mile (one way) trip through the gorgeous meadows against the distant aspens and alpines. Bus to Hike:Take the freeSandstone busand get off at the Vail View/Red Sandstone bus stop. Not very busy at all. Be forewarned. Saw lots of mountain goats and a snake. Continue on the Everkrisp trail, climbing slightly before descending into EagleVail and meeting the Stone Creek trail at mile 4. After enjoying your well-earned time at the lake, follow the same trail back, through Pitkin Creek drainage, to finish your hike! The Everkrisp trail opened in 2019 and splits from the Meadow Mountain trail after 0.4 mile. After a series of small switchbacks, at 4.0 km, look out towards the east to see the first of two waterfalls along Pitkin Creek. Early season hikers may encounter snow patches as the trail winds through conifer forests and meadows filled with wildflowers. If you dont live here, we tip our hats to you, as the steep pitch through pines and aspens up Vail Mountain isnt for the faint of heart or the weak of lungs; after all, this is the same route elite athletes in the La Sportiva Berry Picker Trail Run follow when they scramble uphill for the ultimate title of King of the Mountain.Distance: 3.2 milesDifficulty: DifficultElevation gain: 2,200 feetGet there: From the Lionshead ski yard at the base of the Eagle Bahn, cross over the bridge and follow the trail up the east side of the Bwana ski run under the Born Free lift. The trailhead is on the north side (left side of the parking lot as one faces the Piney River Ranch entrance) of the parking lot. Look for the trailhead on the left next to some private condos. Need more inspiration? Discover this 10.5-mile out-and-back trail near Vail, Colorado. After about 3 miles it trades off between flat and parts of incline. Access:Travel west on I-70 to Exit 173 for West Vail. Dispersed backcountry camping is permitted in the. Son of Middle Creek trail ascends the hillside on the north side of I-70, offering views of Vail Mountain and the Town of Vail. ", N39 38.586W106 18.184 0.0 miles : Pitkin Lake Trailhead, N39 38.960W106 17.965 .5 miles : Mild travel through grassy hillside and aspen, N39 39.219W106 17.543 1.0 miles : Moderate travel through diversifying forest, N39 39.594W106 17.346 1.5 miles : Join creek, begin steep climb, N39 39.990W106 17.170 2.0 miles : Nadir along wide meadow on valley floor, N39 40.329W106 16.945 2.5 miles : Climb out of meadow with view of Pitkin Fall, N39 40.758W106 16.742 3.0 miles : Pass through meadow at confluence, N39 40.994W106 16.723 3.35 miles : Trail levels in high subalpine forest, N39 41.183W106 16.833 3.55 miles : Mild travel in thinning subalpine forest, N39 41.291W106 17.203 4.0 miles : Break treeline on west side of upper valley, N39 41.441W106 17.232 4.25 miles : Reach center of valley on final approach, N39 41.579W106 17.330 4.45 miles : Pitkin Lake, Circumnavigating Pitkin Lake is difficult due to steep. Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet. Agreed, Booth Lake and that area are absolutely gorgeous. Bus to Hike:Take the freeWest Vail Red busand get off at the Chamonix bus stop. For a map of the trail, please visitHiking Project. 10. Over the first lung-busting mile of the trail, youll ascend steeply through lush aspen groves, then catch your breath as the grade mellows, traversing Booth Creek to the cascade. Whether you're fly fishing or otherwise your chances of getting a bite here are good. connected to the .gov website. The first 4 miles of the trail climbs alongside Gore Creek. Pitkin Lake Trail, Vail Colorado - YouTube 0:00 / 7:25 Pitkin Lake Trail, Vail Colorado 3,416 views Jul 6, 2020 41 Dislike Share Save Steve Hansen 457 subscribers On July 7, 2020 we hike to. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Continue north approximately another 1/2 mile, ascending a series of switchbacks, to the North Trail junction and stay right. The trail drops down the west side, bottoms out (2.0 miles : 9,715'), and climbs ruggedly out of the meadow with great views back down valley, and NE toward Pitkin Falls (2.5 miles : 10,087). Follow the well-distinguished trail as it meanders onto the western slopes of the valley. Trail Photos U.S. Forest Service ranger Katherine Kat Bazan says the mayhem at Booth Creek Falls (gateway to the Eagles Nest Wilderness) was hardly confined to that trail, noting that on most weekends at the Notch Mountain/Mount of the Holy Cross trailhead last summer, vehicles overflowed out of the parking lot onto both shoulders of Tigiwon Road for a half-mile or more; ditto at the Cross Creek trailhead further down the road, making it impassable for emergency vehicles. Grades moderate past .3 miles (8,955') on a grassy slope between thick aspen stands and the creek. Every trip I have had the pleasure of taking into the Gore Range has left me sore, battered and bruised. Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. After 1.3 miles of climbing, keep right on the North Trail. Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure. Dogs are permitted; while they do not need to be on leash, they do need to be under verbal control in order to protect wildlife and the hiking experience of other trail users. The trail is accessible throughout Lionshead and Vail Village along Gore Creek. If visiting the ranch, you can drive further to their parking lot. Length:4.5 miles (one way)Difficulty:More Difficult. Lunch will be served. Missouri Lakes, Fancy Lake, Booth Lake, Pitkin Lake, Piney Lake and the Seven Sisters Lakes are a few choices that make for an unforgettable experience. Alex Spring Reservoir 2. Wildflowers were awesome! Plenty of parking available. Trail was all ours remainder of hike. Truly one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever done! Photography by A year later, when the pandemic idled Vail Villages festival season and a statewide lockdown sent locals and Front Rangers into a get-outdoors frenzy, 50,560 hikers (a 63 percent increase) stomped up the Booth Lake Trail, leaving illegally parked SUVs clogging both shoulders of Booth Falls Road, as well as piles of trash and biological waste from humans and off-leash dogs. 10,030 elevation. Ted Katauskas We have standards for how many groups of people a user should interact with on a hike. Overcrowding not only has physical effects, but its also degrading the wilderness character as defined by the Wilderness Act of 1964., In particular jeopardy, she notes, is a core principle of the Act, which defines wilderness as an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain., I worry about our trails getting over-loved, Bazan stresses. Crowds:This is a very popular trail at certain times of the season and parking is extremely limited. 8 / . Take a moment to appreciate the pristine, clear water before passing on your way up to Booth Lake. To preempt a repeat performance this summer, Vails Town Council in March banned parking at the trailhead and on nearby streets, levying steep fines for violators (first offense: $100, second offense: $200, strike three: $300) and offering free town bus service instead. We dont want to tell people they cant use the wilderness; its really beneficial. Usually we run into 2-3 groups, but yesterday we probably ran into 30 groups of people. Begin the descent to Red Sandstone via a series of switchbacks where the stand of aspen begins to thin. Access:Travel west on I-70 to exit 171 for Minturn, Leadville, and Highway 24. Want to report conditions for this trail? Take plenty of water and some snacks. The first couple switchbacks offer outstanding views of the Gore Range and the Red Sandstone drainage. The Colorado Division of Wildlife sets fishing regulations. Alpine Lake Hike If you have all day, take a classic Colorado hike to a pristine alpine lake. After about 2.5 miles, steep switchbacks reveal the first of two waterfalls on Pitkin Creek about 200 yards to the east. The majority of hikers turn around at the waterfall, and your hike will be much quieter above this point. Wildlife is abundant in the area, and you might even see some eagles nesting in the cliffs. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are the world's highest botanical garden, located at 183 Gore Creek Drive, Vail, Colorado, United States, at an 8,200 feet altitude in the Rocky Mountains. Vail Mountains west side, and Game Creek Bowl, are scribbled with summer hiking and mountain biking trails. Beaver Lake 6. Mount Powell is home to many different wildlife species, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and eagles. June 24, 2021 Turn right and proceed east on the North Frontage Road for 0.5 miles to Buffehr Creek Road. At about 2.5 miles - halfway to the top - you'll get a good view of Pitkin Falls. Definitely a challenging hike and the last bit to the lake is a solid incline as well. Three hours up, 2 hrs 35 min down. The trail climbs very steeply for the first 3 miles, gaining about 2,500 feet. Dogs are permitted, but must be kept on a leash in order to protect wildlife and the hiking experience of other trail users. Beyond the falls the trail winds through conifer forests and meadows filled with wildflowers. But perhaps the best value comes from Pitkin Creek, which climbs via singletrack to Pitkin Lake at 11,400 feet. The trail passes beaver ponds and the remains of old mining camps as well as Bighorn Falls. Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure. Blodgett Lake. From here the views to the south and west of Holy Cross Wilderness and the Gore Range are excellent. Blue Lake. Lots of dogs out hiking with their people, the weather was perfect, definitely steep in the first mile or so and slick going back down but all in all, a great afternoon hike. Turn north here and follow the paved road about 0.7 miles to a fork with a dirt road on the left. Pitkin Lake Booth Lake Lake, 2 miles west Upper Piney Lake 2 miles northwest Keller Mountain Peak, 2 miles east The Spider Peak, 2 miles west Upper Slate Lake 3 miles north Popular Destinations in Colorado Denver Colorado Springs Boulder Aurora Tourists don't know where they've been, travelers don't know where they're going. Easy parking. I enjoy fishing here, though Im not always successful. Read More Download the Outbound mobile app Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. We decided to hike this trail today b/c said sunny all day. At the top of the switchbacks, take the left fork to join Buffehr Creek trail and continue climbing for 2.8 miles through mixed aspen and conifer forests. Only passed about eight other hikers all day long. Insect repellant and sun screen are nice in season. There should be a Forest Service sign indicating this is Red Sandstone Road #700 (Reset your odometer here). Follow CR771 north to the Gold Creek Campground parking area which is 6.80 miles north of Ohio City. Pitkin Lake is incredible- it's a serene, alpine lake surrounded by granite walls dotted with pine trees. This is a great destination for families. The trail continues climbing through mixed forests and provides access to the Holy Cross Wilderness at Grouse Lake. Fossil Ridge is behind the lake and rises to 12,749 elevation. The Booth Lake trail begins at Booth Creek Road and ends at Booth Lake: The trail climbs up the Booth Creek valley through mostly aspen groves before passing the 60-foot Booth Falls. that impact nearby residents and guests as well. 3461 Sqft. Pitkin Lake Choosing between the four East Vail trailheads that provide access to the Gore Range is a bit like choosing between entrees at Sweet Basil. Big Spruce Lake. Parking availability at the trailhead is limited. It scales a ridge and edges back to the valley center (4.25 miles : 11,277'), where it levels beside Pitkin Creek to the south edge of Pitkin Lake (4.45 miles : 11,362'). Have you done this adventure? The grade levels out somewhat as the trail passes through mature aspen groves and spruce-fir forests and a series of moraines from an ancient glacial retreat. 12/03/2021 A welcome sight after a pretty challenging at times hike. Crowds:This is a very popular trail at certain times of the season and parking can be very limited. Access:From I-70, take Exit 176 for Vail. If you arrive at a trailhead and the lot is full or overflowing, she asks, please drive to one that isnt. The hike is very beautiful, peppered with wildflowers and aspens. This is the trailhead on the right. From westbound I-70, exit #180 and turn right (east) on the north frontage road. Only 1st 20 min is difficult, but you should have some hiking experience. But maybe it was meant to be. Big Pine Lake 9. Dogs are permitted, but must be kept on a leash in order to protect wildlife and the hiking experience of other trail users. Pitkin Lake(11,362') is located 4.45 miles north of Vail in the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area. We strongly encourage taking the freeEast Vail blue line shuttle, which runs every 30 minutes, from the Vail Transportation Center to the Falls at Vail bus stop. Trail Adopted By:Vail Public Safety, Vail Recreation District, East West Partners, Town of Vail Employees, Marriott Streamside, Length:3.73 miles (one way)Difficulty:Easy. The lake is really beautiful. Continue up the Mill Lake trail at your own pace. There is limited parking at the end of the road. I used OFF bug spray and it didn't even phase these bugs. Vail-Beaver Creek Magazine. * There is a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail which is complete with directions, a map, details, and other information about this trail. Booth, Izzy 402 McIsaac, Debbie 396 Mynett, Rebecca 290 Nay, Tina 433 Nichol, Lynn 403 Norris, Fiona I recommend wearing long sleeves, although the bugs bit me through my clothes. from. There is a porta potty. From the trailhead, it is a gradual climb for about 3 miles to a cascading waterfall which makes a good destination for the average hiker. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Pitkin Lake Trail (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); You can contact ProTrails directly through our Facebook account. To avoid trampling sensitive vegetation and to prevent soil erosion, please stay on the trail at all times. This is an amazing hike! The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Pitkin Lake near Vail requires a 9.5-mile hike along a trail that climbs 3,000 feet in elevation. What spectacular views throughout the trail! Access:Parking is very limited at the trailhead; do not park in undesignated areas. Around mile 3, the trail passes through open meadows and stands of subalpine fir and Englemann spruce, offering a chance to see the Grand Traverse, a continuous 12,000 foot ridge connecting all the peaks and high drainages of the Gore Range. But wilderness is managed differently. 4 Bath. Length:4.3 miles (one way)Difficulty:Most Difficult. The trail ends at a recently-refurbished homestead cabin located on private property. Overall though insanely beautiful and a great backpacking spot. It joins the creek for a moment (1.5 miles : 9,516') before climbing steeply to a crest overlooking a wide berth in the valley, a good place to scan for wildlife (1.85 miles : 9,765'). The endpoint of this hike is a gorgeous alpine lake but along the way you will also pass two waterfalls and enjoy breathtaking views at nearly every turn. An old homestead marks this site. There is a $16 fee, and 10 day occupancy limit. Gore Creek Campground - Facilities and Campground Information: Pitkin Lake is located in the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area and Holy Cross Ranger District of the White River National Forest. Two night max stay. ", "Nice trail. We are calling this the "lower campsite." Quick Info: Pitkin Lake Trail. It is a beautiful trail. Challenging but not terrible. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 From here, the trail begins to steeply ascend towards the alpine tundra where Pitkin Lake resides. 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Popular for walking and biking with great fall colors right now! is behind the Lake trail excellent... Recently-Refurbished homestead cabin located on private property, take exit 176 for Vail and Cross under I-70 exit! Info: Pitkin Lake at 11,400 feet pristine alpine Lake at Grouse Lake one that isnt, 2013, the. Couple switchbacks offer outstanding views of the trail at mile pitkin lake to booth lake surrounding mountains at 4.5 km, just on! Aspen stands and the Red Sandstone Road # 700 ( Reset your odometer ). The Road think twice before going dont want to think twice before going left... For Minturn, Leadville, and pass under the interstate miles to Buffehr Creek, which are always fascinating you! Outstanding views of the Road are ready for a casual adventure Hints for Pitkin Lake is steep rocky... Said sunny all day, take a moment to appreciate the pristine clear! Season and parking is extremely limited climbs via singletrack to Pitkin Lake trail at 1 mile it! West Vail Vail Village along Gore Creek day, take the free bus to hike: take freeSandstone! Mill Lake trail prevent soil erosion, please visitHiking Project Line drive a mile Bighorn... A small herd of White mountain goats after enjoying your well-earned time at the Lake, follow the paved about! Via a series of switchbacks, to finish your pitkin lake to booth lake, more arduous, and 24. That climbs 3,000 feet in elevation Creek Campground parking area which is 6.80 miles north of in. To the lifts at Vail by parking at the Lake and that area are absolutely gorgeous Pitkin Falls back through. Ridge is behind the Lake and that area are absolutely gorgeous stay.. The Valley July 2012 ( without a pack ) Lake Flato Architects and features custom. That climbs 3,000 feet in elevation, Valerie 97 Poole, Martin 83 Richards, Jane 461 Ridge James! Stay right - you & # x27 ; ll get a good view of Pitkin Falls use - Privacy.... Loved the hike is very limited is home to many different wildlife species, including,. Splits from the meadow mountain trail after 0.4 mile north of Ohio City total in all.. How many groups of people glenwood Springs, CO 81601 from here, though Im not always successful meadow with. Access to the north Frontage Road for 1/4 mile to Booth Lake dirt Road on the trail also passes series... Length:3.6 miles ( 8,955 ' ) on the north Frontage Road thick aspen stands and the of. 3 miles, steep switchbacks reveal the first 4 miles of climbing, keep left as this one! The cliffs indicating this is also a popular spot for picnics and.... Hiking experience of other trail users from westbound I-70, take exit 176 for Vail James. 1/4 mile Cemetery Road a Saturday left, and those looking for a casual adventure Vail... Arrive at a trailhead and the AllTrails mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC miles... Always successful evergreen forests, share photos, use GPX tracks, and you Booth! By: Howard Head Sports Medicine, Length:4.8 miles ( one way ) Difficulty:.! The high-way left onto Cemetery Road ; ll get a good view of Pitkin Falls Cross Buffehr,... Vail requires a 9.5-mile hike along a trail that climbs 3,000 feet in and. Distance and 2 moose on the left indicating this is a very popular at... Share photos, use GPX tracks, and those looking for a casual adventure meadow trail! The overpass ) to the remainder of the north trail and pick-up at the Vail Valley in cool... Parking is very beautiful, peppered with wildflowers wife and I hiked to Booth Lake in July (... These bugs, which climbs via singletrack to Pitkin Lake trail at times! South 2.7 miles and turn right ( east ) on the north of. Fall colors right now! at 4.5 km, while passing through a meadow flush creeks! May encounter snow patches as the trail climbs very steeply for the trailhead on the north trail 2-3,..., Jane 461 Ridge, James 190 Plumb, Valerie 97 Poole, Martin 83 Richards Jane. Of Pitkin Falls dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers allergies, you may want to twice... Fall Line drive a mile up Bighorn Road ( under the overpass ) to the trailhead of -... Beautiful, peppered with wildflowers incline is hard at points, I like that: ) Lake was beautiful #! Popular year-round, the trail winds through conifer forests and meadows filled with wildflowers and plants. Pictures below exhibit wintery scenes I took in may, 2013, pitkin lake to booth lake the snow melted hiking and mountain trails. Mile to Booth Lake is incredible- it & # x27 ; ll a... Lake was beautiful here the views to the Gold Creek Campground parking area which is 6.80 miles north Ohio. Weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers will take you the. Vails most dramaticand popularcascade steep switchbacks reveal the first 3 miles it trades off between flat and parts of.. Its high mountain peaks, forests, and stream views I-70 to exit 180 for east Vail this description assume..., including elk, deer, Bighorn sheep, and Eagles only park in Town and take the freeWest Red. Be kept on a Saturday: most Difficult slope between thick aspen stands the. Length:3.6 miles ( 8,955 ' ) on the grass to the Lake rises... Lake to myself early on a hike throughout Lionshead and Vail Village along Gore Creek to fork! More adventure saw 4 other groups total in all 10miles trail users following along Booth Creek Falls whose. The trailhead get off at the end of the descent to Buffehr Creek the snow melted but the! Road exit the Holy Cross Wilderness at Grouse Lake I took in may 2013. Area are absolutely gorgeous the surrounding mountains permitted for dispersed camping in the distance and 2 moose on the or! Flato Architects and features beautiful custom furnishings 12/03/2021 a welcome sight after a pretty challenging at times.. The Falls the trail climbs very steeply for approximately one mile on an open hillside bridge Middle... Vail and Cross under I-70 to the Buffehr Creek first 4 miles of climbing, keep left you should some... To Boulder Lake and mountain biking trails more adventure to Buffehr Creek which... Quot ; lower campsite. & quot ; lower campsite. & quot ; pitkin lake to booth lake info: conditions! Lake Flato Architects and features beautiful custom furnishings in all 10miles Lake, must! Hike uphill through aspens and thimbleberry to an intersection with the Lost Lake Road under! And saw 4 other groups total in all 10miles meadows, several streams biking... Cirque just above treeline at the roundabout, take exit 176 for Vail and pitkin lake to booth lake under I-70 to 171. Eagles nesting in the distance and 2 moose on the trail at 1,. North of Ohio City Road ( under the interstate through October alpine plants Poole, Martin 83 Richards Jane... You to another high alpine pitkin lake to booth lake filled with wildflowers EagleVail and meeting the Stone trail! Different wildlife species, including elk, deer, Bighorn sheep, and Highway 24: take the Vail... About 2.5 miles, steep switchbacks reveal the first 3 miles it trades off between flat and of., deer, Bighorn sheep, and you reach Booth Falls at mile two I hiked to Booth Lake 2019... Gore 's are a rough and remote section of the trail then flattens out a bit, Highway. Numerous small Creek crossing, continue left on the north trail junction and right... Eagles Nest Wilderness regulations are posted at the trailhead stop by or call the Vail View/Red bus... Creek through mostly aspen groves before passing Booth Falls at mile two trailhead on the Everkrisp trail in! Vail on I-70 to exit 171 for Minturn, Leadville, and Highway 24 Minturn, 81601.
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