• Exploring the Top 10

    Best Lake Hikes Near Breckenridge

Welcome to our highlight of the top ten best lake hikes near Breckenridge! If you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid hiker, or just looking to spend a little time outdoors, you’re in for a treat as you explore the alpine lakes in the area. These local hikes will take you through lodgepole pine and aspen forests, past colorful wildflowers, to stunning mountain lakes! Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that call these landscapes their home. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore!

  • 1. Sawmill Reservoir

    This is a great hike for the whole family, and it’s super close to town! It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, so you’ll probably see a bunch of other people on the trail. If you’re staying at Grand Timber Lodge, you can just walk right over. Otherwise, try to carpool since it can get busy. The trail takes you past the Snowflake Lift and down to Sawmill Creek, where you’ll get some amazing views of the Breckenridge Ski Resort and the beautiful Sawmill Reservoir. Keep an eye out for trout—you can usually spot them swimming in the clear water!

  • 2. Mohawk Lakes

    If you’re looking for a serious challenge near Breckenridge, you’ve got to check out the Mohawk Lakes hike! You’ll start at the Spruce Creek Trailhead and get some breathtaking (literally) views on your way up to Continental Falls, Lower Mohawk Lake, and then Upper Mohawk Lake. It’s a tough climb in some spots, but the views are totally worth it. Trust me, it’s a Breckenridge must-do. Just a heads-up, this hike gets super popular, so try to get to the trailhead early to snag a spot!

  • 3. Blue Lakes

    Blue Lakes is a great choice for those seeking incredible views with minimal effort! This trail takes you around the beautiful Blue Lakes entirely on gravel roads. There are two parking lots, one above the dam at the upper lake and another below. This leisurely walk is perfect if you love alpine lakes but prefer an easy stroll. Just a 20-minute drive from Breckenridge, it’s an excellent spot for fishing, camping, or enjoying a picnic.

Erick Thompson via Alltrails.com

  • 4. Lower Crystal Lake

    Starting from Blue River, the hike to Lower Crystal Lake can be a challenge, with more than 1,600 vertical feet of elevation gain. But trust me, once you get to that gorgeous alpine lake with the massive mountains all around, you’ll know it was totally worth it! Lower Crystal Lake is accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles. For those seeking an even greater challenge, consider pushing onward to Upper Crystal Lake along the trail.

Chuck Newkirk via Alltrails.com

  • 5. Lake Emma

    Lake Emma, a moderately challenging hike near Alma, offers stunning views from a shorter distance. Starting at Kite Lake, the trailhead is often busy, but don’t worry; most hikers opt for the four fourteeners (Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross) instead of Lake Emma. As you trek along the trail, listen for the many marmots that live in the boulder field! The final leg is a bit steep and loose, following a stream until you reach the stunning blue-water lake. The crystal-clear water, surrounded by wildflowers, is filled with cutthroat and rainbow trout.

  • 6. Lily Pad Lake

    Lily Pad Lake, situated in the Eagles Nest Wilderness near Silverthorne, is an excellent choice for families. The trail starts off in a wildflower meadow, leading you into a forest of lodgepole pines and aspens. Along the way, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of Dillon Reservoir and Buffalo Mountain while passing by beaver ponds and streams. The hike ends at Lily Pad Lake, with a secondary smaller lake nearby. In the height of summer, both lakes are filled with green lily pads and yellow flowers!

  • 7. Salmon Lake

    Salmon Lake offers a challenging option for hikers seeking an adventurous full-day trek! Spanning almost 10 miles with over 2,500 vertical feet of elevation gain, this hike in Silverthorne is not for the faint of heart. The journey rewards you with breathtaking views of the Gore Range. Unlike other popular hikes in the area, Salmon Lake sees less foot traffic and more solitude along the way. Be ready for a day filled with sunshine and vistas as you hike to Salmon Lake!

Kim Freitas via Alltrails.com

  • 8. Willow Lakes

    Willow Lakes, located in the Gore Range and sharing the same trailhead as Salmon Lakes, offers another demanding hike. Spanning almost 12 miles with an elevation gain of 2,700 feet, Willow Lakes would be an excellent choice for an overnight backpacking adventure. This hike has it all – picturesque wildflowers, forests, rivers, and wildlife. Keep an eye out for mountain goats that often roam the area, but remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their habitat.

Michael Mcduffie via Alltrails.com

  • 9. Officer’s Gulch

    Officer’s Gulch offers easy access and a leisurely hike near Frisco, just off of I-70. It’s a stunning location to stretch your legs and admire the picturesque views. Taking less than half an hour to complete, the hike circles the lake. Keep in mind that certain sections may be damp and muddy, so remember to bring appropriate hiking shoes!

  • 10. Chihuahua Lake

    This lake is a little bit further away than some of the others on the list, but we couldn’t leave it out! Situated in Montezuma, near Keystone, this hike spans approximately 7 miles. However, you can opt for a much shorter journey if you have a four-wheel drive vehicle. The trail traverses high-alpine, rocky terrain and ascends a steep boulder field. Eventually, your efforts will be rewarded with the sight of Chihuahua Lake, known for its vibrant blue waters. Anglers frequently visit this area, and you’ll likely spot fly-fishers catching trout in the alpine waters.