Turquoise Lakes Trail

The trail typically starts from Beaver Creek Village. To access the hiking trails, you'll need to navigate escalators within the village. Parking is available in Beaver Creek Village, though specific parking instructions might vary depending on the season and resort operations. It's advisable to check the Beaver Creek Resort website for the most current parking information.

This is primarily an out-and-back trail. While it follows sections of other trails like the Beaver Lake/Turquoise Lake trail, the journey to the Turquoise Lakes and back is a linear path.

The Turquoise Lakes Trail is located within the Holy Cross Wilderness, which is part of the White River National Forest. Generally, there are no entrance fees for day hiking in the White River National Forest. However, specific permits might be required for overnight camping or certain activities within the wilderness area. Always check the latest regulations from the US Forest Service before your trip.

The terrain varies. The initial and final sections follow established trails within the Beaver Creek ski resort. Beyond Beaver Lake, the path becomes more secluded, alternating between dense pine stands and open, boggy meadows. It's a narrow dirt path that crosses Beaver Creek multiple times over small bog bridges. While not inherently steep, some sections can be rough, rooty, and potentially muddy, especially after rain or snowmelt.

Given the lush and secluded nature of the trail, especially past Beaver Lake, you might spot various wildlife. Moose are known to inhabit the area due to the ample habitat. Keep an eye out for other forest animals and birds as you hike through the evergreen forests and meadows.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early fall, after the snow has melted and before new snow arrives. Wildflowers can be excellent, particularly near Lower Turquoise Lake, during the summer months. Be aware that immediately after snowmelt, mosquitoes can be an issue, and some sections might be humid.

Yes, this trail is considered difficult primarily due to its length (around 16 miles round trip to Upper Turquoise Lake) and significant elevation gain (nearly 3,300 feet from Beaver Creek Village). While the incline is generally slow, the sustained effort makes it challenging. Expect potential muddy spots, rooty sections, and humidity. The high altitude can also add to the difficulty, so proper acclimatization is recommended.

The trail offers views of the Beaver Creek Ski Resort and lush alpine forests. You'll pass by Beaver Lake, which is a common turnaround point for many hikers. Further along, you'll reach Lower Turquoise Lake, which can be marshy, and then the more scenic Upper Turquoise Lake, nestled beneath the steep, rocky slopes of Grouse Mountain and Mount Jackson. The trail also follows Beaver Creek, leading to its source deep within the Holy Cross Wilderness.

As the trail is located within the Holy Cross Wilderness, dogs are generally allowed. However, they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Turquoise Lake trail (57% of the route), Beaver Lake/Turquoise Lake trail (34%), Village to Village trail (7%), Allie's Way (7%), and Lost Buck Spur (5%). These connections can offer alternative starting points or extensions for your hike.

Due to its length, significant elevation gain, and difficult rating, this trail is generally not recommended for beginners or families with young children looking to complete the entire route to the Turquoise Lakes. Most hikers turn back at Beaver Lake, which offers a shorter, more manageable option for those seeking a less strenuous experience.